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20g Protein Southwest Chicken Salad That Fuels Your Day

high protein southwest chicken salad
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A high-protein southwest chicken salad packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for meal prep or a healthy lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 10–12 oz)
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (canned/drained, frozen/thawed, or grilled corn)
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Creamy Southwest Dressing:
  • 3/4 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp light mayonnaise (or more yogurt)
  • 1 Tbsp lime juice (plus extra to taste)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the mix-ins: Stir in shredded chicken, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro until evenly coated.
  3. Optional avocado: Gently fold in diced avocado right before serving (best for freshness).
  4. Chill (best flavor): Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes if you have time so the flavors meld.
  5. Serve: Enjoy with toast, crackers, pita chips, lettuce cups, or in a wrap. Add extra lime and a sprinkle of chili powder on top if you like.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For meal prep, keep avocado separate and add just before serving.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding more or less jalapeño.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein chicken salad, chicken salad meal prep, black bean corn chicken salad, lime cilantro chicken salad, healthy lunch ideas

Find it online: https://zoerecipe.com/high-protein-southwest-chicken-salad-recipe/