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Finished southwest chicken salad in a meal prep container with a tortilla chip in the top right corner of the container sitting on a blue and white striped dish towel.
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5 from 5 votes

Southwest Chicken Salad

By: Min Kwon | MJ and Hungryman
Southwest Chicken Salad is one of those meals that always feels fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. It takes minimal time to prepare and is packed with protein, colorful veggies, and a creamy dressing that makes every bite delicious!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
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Ingredients 

  • 12 ounce shredded or diced chicken
  • 15 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn
  • 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/2 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Dressing

  • 3/4 cup Greek yogurt (or 1/2 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup mayonnaise)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked parprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, leave out if sharing with little ones)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper, season to taste
  • 1 lime

Optional

  • shredded cheese
  • avocado

Instructions 

  • Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chicken and the vegetables.
  • Cook the chicken: If you haven't already, cook and shred or dice the chicken breast (or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken). Add it to the salad.
  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients.
  • Assemble the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Top the salad with sliced avocado and shredded cheese (if using).
  • Serve: Enjoy right away as a light lunch or dinner, or store it in the fridge for a meal prep option!

Notes

  • Soak the onion in cold water for 10 minutes to make it less spicy for kids.
  • Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes after mixing to let the flavors meld.
  • For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
  • Crunchy Addition – Toss in crushed tortilla chips or pepitas.

Nutrition

Calories: 373kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 10g | Sodium: 646mg | Potassium: 836mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1218IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 111mg | Iron: 4mg
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