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Southwestern Chicken Salad

Delicious Southwestern Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt Twist

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This Southwestern Chicken Salad boasts vibrant flavors with creamy Greek yogurt, making it a healthy protein-packed option.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast Main protein source. Can substitute with 2.5 cups shredded rotisserie or canned chicken.
  • Kosher salt Enhances flavor. Adjust to taste.
  • black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt Acts as a creamy base that keeps this Southwestern Chicken Salad healthy, providing protein; Skyr is a great substitute.
  • 2 tbsp lime juice Adds tanginess; fresh lime is preferred for the best flavor.
  • ¾ tsp ground cumin Provides warm, earthy notes.
  • ¾ tsp chili powder Adds mild spice.
  • ¾ tsp smoked paprika Contributes smokiness.
  • ¾ cup black beans Adds fiber and additional protein; rinse and drain if using canned.
  • ½ cup finely diced red bell pepper Provides crunch and sweetness.
  • ½ cup corn Preferably fire-roasted; canned or frozen corn can also be used.
  • ¼ cup finely diced red onion Adds sharpness and crunch.
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro Adds freshness and color.
Optional Toppings
  • diced avocado For a creamier texture.
  • diced jalapeños For an extra kick if you enjoy heat.
  • different herbs like parsley or green onions To customize your flavor profile.

Equipment

  • medium pot
  • Large Bowl
  • Spatula
  • Forks

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium pot, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and enough water to cover them completely. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the chicken for about 15-20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  2. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Use two forks or a stand mixer on low speed to shred the chicken into fine pieces.
  3. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of full-fat plain Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice, ¾ teaspoon of ground cumin, ¾ teaspoon of chili powder, and ¾ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Whisk the mixture vigorously until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add the shredded chicken to the bowl with the yogurt dressing. Then, introduce ¾ cup of drained black beans, ½ cup of finely diced red bell pepper, ½ cup of corn, ¼ cup of finely diced red onion, and ¼ cup of chopped cilantro. Gently fold everything together using a spatula.
  5. To allow the flavors to meld, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
  6. After chilling, serve your salad spooned onto whole wheat toast, scooped with tortilla chips, or wrapped in tortillas.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Shred the chicken while it's still warm for fluffy pieces. Adjust spices to taste and allow for chilling before serving to enhance flavors.

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