Description
This High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and satisfying meal that combines lean chicken, black beans, and fresh vegetables with a creamy Southwest dressing. Perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or as a light lunch. Enjoy the smoky and zesty flavors of the Southwest in every bite.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumi
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels, thawed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumi
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – Pat the chicken breasts dry, rub the spice mixture over both sides, cook in a skillet for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then rest and dice
- Step 2: Whisk the Dressing – Combine yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey (if desired), spices and whisk until smooth
- Step 3: Assemble the Salad – Combine lettuce, beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, cherry tomatoes, and diced chicken in a bowl
- Step 4: Toss and Serve – Pour the dressing over the salad, add avocado and cilantro, then gently toss to combine before serving
Notes
Store components separately to maintain freshness, especially the dressing and avocado.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420-480 kcal
- Sugar: 5-7 g
- Sodium: 550-650 mg
- Fat: 18-22 g
- Saturated Fat: 4-5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14-17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
- Fiber: 8-10 g
- Protein: 40-45 g
- Cholesterol: 70-80 mg