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High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad — Bold, Fresh, and Powerfully Satisfying

If you’re looking for a meal that’s fresh, filling, and packed with protein, this High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad checks every box. It combines seasoned chicken, crisp vegetables, hearty beans, and a zesty Southwest-style dressing for a salad that eats like a full meal—not a side. This recipe is designed for: High-protein eating and balanced nutrition Meal prep that stays fresh and satisfying Lunches that actually keep you full Anyone who loves bold, smoky Southwest flavors With juicy chicken as the star, this salad delivers serious flavor alongside crunch, freshness, and just the right amount of creaminess. It’s energizing, colorful, and endlessly craveable.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • These ingredients are balanced to maximize protein texture, and Southwest flavor.
Protein
  • 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breast
Chicken Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Salad Base
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup corn fresh or cooked
  • 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup red onion finely diced
  • ½ cup cucumber diced
Creamy Southwest Dressing
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
  • Avocado slices
  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • Greek yogurt boosts protein while keeping the dressing creamy and light.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or grill pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl (for dressing)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Tongs or large spoon
  • Using a grill pan adds extra smoky flavor, but a skillet works perfectly.

Method
 

Step 1: Season the Chicken
  1. In a bowl, toss the chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and golden. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Slice the Chicken
  1. Once rested, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad Base
  1. In a large bowl, add romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, red onion, and cucumber. Toss gently to combine.
Step 6: Add the Chicken
  1. Place the sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture.
Step 7: Dress the Salad
  1. Drizzle the Southwest dressing over the salad. Start with half and add more as needed.
Step 8: Toss and Finish
  1. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Add avocado and cilantro if using.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning or lime juice as needed.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store salad and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days
Reheating
Reheat chicken gently before adding to the salad
Keep vegetables and dressing cold for best texture
This salad is excellent for meal prep when components are stored separately.
🥄 Variations
Customize your High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad:
Extra Protein: Add extra chicken or chickpeas
Low-Carb: Skip corn and beans
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño or chili flakes
Crunch Boost: Add roasted pumpkin seeds
Wrap Version: Serve inside lettuce wraps
Each variation keeps the salad bold, filling, and nutrient-dense.
❓ 10 FAQs
How high is the protein content?
The chicken and Greek yogurt provide a strong protein boost.
Can I grill the chicken?
Yes, grilling adds great smoky flavor.
Is this good for weight-focused diets?
Yes, it’s filling and protein-rich.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Does it work for meal prep?
Absolutely—store components separately.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce spice for a milder version.
Why rest the chicken?
Resting keeps it juicy and tender.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, seasoned leftovers work great.
Is the dressing spicy?
It’s mild with warmth, not heat.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales perfectly for groups.
🏁 Conclusion
This High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad proves that salads can be bold, filling, and deeply satisfying. With juicy seasoned chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy protein-rich dressing, it’s a complete meal that fuels your day without feeling heavy.
Whether you’re meal prepping, powering through a busy workday, or craving something fresh and flavorful, this recipe delivers nutrition, balance, and big taste—all in one bowl.