Description

This High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad is a flavorful, nutritious dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Combining shredded chicken, black beans, corn, fresh vegetables, and a zesty, creamy dressing with Southwest-inspired spices, this salad delivers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. It can be enjoyed on its own, in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or alongside tortilla chips for a tasty and protein-packed meal.

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 jalapeno, finely chopped
⅓ 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

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Instructions

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, taco seasoning, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add shredded cooked chicken, rinsed black beans, drained corn, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, finely chopped jalapeno, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss thoroughly until all components are coated evenly with the dressing.
Serve: Serve the salad cold, either as a standalone dish, inside sandwiches, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy accompaniment.

Notes

Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces fat and adds extra protein.
Adjust the jalapeno amount according to your preferred spice level.
For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cheddar cheese or substitute with a low-fat variety.