Description
A creamy, protein-packed Southwestern chicken salad made with Greek yogurt, bold spices, black beans, corn, and fresh vegetables. This lighter, flavorful dish is perfect for quick meals, wraps, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt or skyr
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3/4 tsp ground cumin
- 3/4 tsp chili powder
- 3/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper to taste (optional)
- 3/4 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup corn (fire-roasted preferred)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a pot, season with salt and pepper, and cover with water by at least one inch.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and shred using two forks or a mixer until finely pulled apart.
- In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
- Add shredded chicken, black beans, bell pepper, corn, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl.
- Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lime juice.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled with bread, wraps, or chips.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience (about 2.5 cups shredded).
- Drain beans and corn well to avoid excess moisture.
- Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Include jalapeño for more heat if desired.
- Swap cilantro with parsley for a milder flavor.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Not suitable for freezing due to yogurt base.
- Best served cold for optimal flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
