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+ servings
Southwestern Chicken Salad

Delicious Southwestern Chicken Salad for Quick Weeknight Meals

A colorful Southwestern Chicken Salad packed with protein and vibrant flavors, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Use fresh or thawed from frozen.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Substitute with skyr for thicker option.
  • 2 tbsp Lime Juice Can swap with lemon juice.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder Increase for more heat.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Optional for depth.
For the Salad
  • 1 can Black Beans Drain and rinse thoroughly.
  • 1 cup Diced Red Bell Pepper Swap with other bell pepper colors if desired.
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels Use fresh, frozen, or canned (drained).
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Can substitute with green onions.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Omit if you're not a fan.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook Chicken: Season boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a medium saucepan, cover chicken with water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
  2. Shred Chicken: Transfer cooked chicken to a large mixing bowl. Allow it to cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. Combine Salad: Add shredded chicken to the dressing with black beans, diced red bell pepper, corn, and red onion. Stir gently until well-coated.
  5. Chill: Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Stir and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve in wraps, over greens, or alongside tortilla chips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This salad is customizable and stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. Adjust seasonings based on personal preference for the best taste experience.

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