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–+ servings

Easy High Protein Southwestern Chicken Salad

Rose
A creamy, mayo-free Southwestern chicken salad made with Greek yogurt, bold spices, black beans, and corn. High in protein, fresh in flavor, and perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or light dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine American, Southwestern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • cutting board
  • chef’s knife
  • medium pot

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 3/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup corn (fire-roasted if available)
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Place chicken breasts in lightly salted water, bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked. Cool slightly and shred using two forks or a mixer.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Add shredded chicken to the dressing and toss until evenly coated. Fold in black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor, chill the salad for at least 20–30 minutes before serving. Adjust lime juice and spices to taste. Add avocado just before serving for extra creaminess. Freezing is not recommended due to the yogurt-based dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 33gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2.1mg
Keyword greek yogurt chicken salad, high protein chicken salad, meal prep salad, southwestern chicken salad
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