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Southwestern Chicken Salad with vibrant ingredients and creamy Greek yogurt dressing displayed with warm tones.
Chef Name

Southwestern Chicken Salad Recipes for Fresh and Flavorful Meals

This Southwestern Chicken Salad is a healthy, protein-packed meal bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors, creamy Greek yogurt, and vibrant veggies. Perfect for meal prep or a light, satisfying lunch.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 231

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • kosher salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup full-fat plain greek yogurt or skyr
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • ¾ tsp ground cumin
  • ¾ tsp chili powder
  • ¾ tsp smoked paprika
  • kosher salt & black pepper to taste
  • cayenne optional, to taste
  • ¾ cup black beans
  • ½ cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • ½ cup corn (preferably fire-roasted)
  • ¼ cup finely diced red onion
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. Add chicken breasts to a medium pot and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cover with at least 1 inch of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  2. Transfer cooked chicken to a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer and shred the chicken using the mixer or two forks.
  3. In another large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
  4. Add shredded chicken, black beans, red bell pepper, corn, red onion, and cilantro to the yogurt mixture. Stir until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Refrigerate the chicken salad until chilled and flavors meld together.
  6. Serve on whole wheat toast, with tortilla chips, on a rice cake, or wrapped in a tortilla. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra spice, add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and is perfect for meal prep lunches. Use fire-roasted corn for a smoky flavor.