Zesty Southwestern Chicken Salad That’s Mayo-Free and Fabulous

A light and protein-packed Southwestern Chicken Salad, perfect for meal prep and casual get-togethers.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Chill Time 30

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: Southwestern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Substitute with shredded rotisserie or canned chicken for convenience.
1 tsp Kosher Salt Essential seasoning for enhancing chicken flavor.
1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to your taste.

For the Dressing

1 cup Full-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt Can be replaced with low-fat yogurt, but texture will differ.
2 Tbsp Lime Juice Fresh lime juice is highly recommended for best flavor.
1 tsp Ground Cumin Can use taco seasoning as a substitute (start with 1 tbsp).
1 tsp Chili Powder Adjust according to spice preferences.
1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works if you prefer a milder taste.

For the Salad

1 can Black Beans Rinse before using.
1 cup Finely Diced Red Bell Pepper Alternatives: any color bell pepper or diced cucumbers.
1 cup Corn Fire-roasted corn is delicious, but fresh, canned, or frozen varieties are great.
1/2 cup Finely Diced Red Onion Consider green onions for a milder flavor.
1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Parsley can be a substitute if not a cilantro fan.

Equipment

medium pot
Large mixing bowl
forks or stand mixer
whisk

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a medium pot, season with salt and pepper, cover with water, boil then simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, let cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces using forks or a stand mixer.
Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Whisk until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, black beans, red bell pepper, corn, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl. Stir until well mixed.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve: Gently stir before serving. Great with toast, tortilla chips, or wrapped in a tortilla.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best taste, consume within the first few days after preparation, when the flavors are most vibrant.

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