Description
This High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a quick, healthy meal. Packed with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, fresh vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing, it combines nutritious ingredients to deliver a satisfying and protein-rich salad. Ideal for serving in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or alongside tortilla chips, this no-cook recipe offers convenience without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups shredded cooked chicken (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
- 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. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed black beans, drained corn, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, finely chopped jalapeno, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss these ingredients together to distribute them evenly.
- Mix Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all components with the dressing. Chill if desired and serve cold, either in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or accompanied by tortilla chips.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter and tangier dressing.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeno according to your preferred spice level.
- Ensure black beans and corn are well rinsed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- This salad can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days for best freshness.
- Serve immediately or within 24 hours to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
