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Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 113 reviews
  • Author: Lauren
  • Prep Time: 30 min
  • Cook Time: 0 min
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Southwestern
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a flavorful, protein-packed meal prep option combining tender chicken, black beans, corn, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty mix of Greek yogurt and low sugar BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch with a touch of spice and creaminess, topped with avocado and crunchy crushed tortillas for added texture.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb cooked chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn
  • ½ cup tomatoes, diced
  • ½ cup red onion, diced
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
  • Avocado, diced (for topping)
  • Crushed tortillas (for serving)

Dressing & Seasoning

  • ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp low sugar BBQ sauce
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ lime, juiced (optional)


Instructions

  1. Combine the main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed cooked chicken breast, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed for balanced flavor in every bite.
  2. Add the dressing and spices: Top the salad mixture with plain Greek yogurt and low sugar BBQ sauce. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and chili powder over the top to add depth and southwestern flair.
  3. Mix thoroughly: Drizzle lime juice over the salad if desired for a fresh citrus kick. Stir everything well to ensure the dressing and spices coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Serve and garnish: Serve the salad topped with diced avocado and crushed tortillas for added creaminess and crunch. Enjoy immediately or store for meal prep.

Notes

  • This Southwest Chicken Salad is ideal for meal prep as it keeps well and packs high protein and fiber.
  • Add fresh avocado just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.
  • Serve with tortilla chips or crushed tortillas for a satisfying crunch.
  • Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences for milder or spicier flavor.
  • Can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 299 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 381 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 74 mg