Description
This High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad is packed with lean chicken, fiber-rich veggies, and a zesty southwestern dressing, making it a flavorful and filling meal prep idea. Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or healthy meal prep, this salad keeps you energized and satisfied all day long.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients for High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 avocado (diced)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spinach, or kale)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Grill or pan-sear for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest and slice.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and mixed greens.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: Add sliced chicken to the salad, drizzle with dressing, and toss to combine. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and serve.
- Meal Prep Tip: Keep dressing and avocado separate when storing for meal prep.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, swap chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Adjust the level of heat by adding sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the dressing.
- This salad can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, perfect for meal prep.
- Add extra veggies like cucumbers, zucchini, or spinach for more texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 85mg