Description
This High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish combining shredded chicken with black beans, corn, fresh vegetables, and a tangy, creamy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it’s packed with protein and vibrant Southwestern flavors, and can be served on its own, in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or alongside tortilla chips.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 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 jalapeño, 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 until smooth and well blended to create a creamy, flavorful dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed black beans, drained corn, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, finely chopped jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Mix Dressing and Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the dressing coats all components evenly.
- Serve: Chill if desired, then serve cold. This salad is delicious when enjoyed on its own, stuffed into sandwiches or lettuce wraps, or served alongside tortilla chips for a refreshing and protein-packed meal.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- Adjust the jalapeño amount according to preferred spice level.
- If not serving immediately, store the salad in the refrigerator covered to maintain freshness.
- Ideal for meal prep; keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best texture.
