Description
This High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a nutritious lunch or light dinner. Combining shredded chicken with black beans, corn, fresh vegetables, and a zesty southwest-inspired dressing, it offers a hearty and satisfying meal loaded with protein and vibrant Tex-Mex flavors. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for meal prep or a delicious, no-cook option served cold.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups shredded cooked chicken (2-3 breasts)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 ½ cups chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ small red onion, chopped
- 1 small jalapeno, finely chopped
- â…“ cup chopped cilantro
Dressing Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), fresh lime juice, taco seasoning, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well mixed.
- Mix the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed and drained black beans, drained corn, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, finely chopped jalapeno, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss these ingredients together to evenly distribute everything.
- Toss with Dressing and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss the salad well to coat all components with the dressing. Serve the salad cold either in sandwiches, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or alongside tortilla chips for a refreshing, protein-packed meal.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce fat content and add a tangy flavor.
- Adjust the jalapeno quantity or omit seeds for less heat if desired.
- Use freshly cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
- For added crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or cucumber.
