Go Back
–+ servings
High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad with colorful ingredients

High-Protein Southwest Chicken Salad

A hearty salad that brings the warmth of fall with spiced chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, perfect for a balanced meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine American, Southwestern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad

  • 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 piece avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Dressing

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or a halal alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Rub this spice mixture onto the chicken breasts.
  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Salad

  • In a large serving bowl, layer the mixed greens as the base.
  • Top with cherry tomatoes, corn, red bell pepper, avocado, black beans, and red onion.
  • Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top of the salad.

Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad, or serve it on the side for guests to add as desired.

Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for an extra burst of flavor and color.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness of the ingredients in every bite!

Notes

Cook Chicken Properly: Make sure to check that your chicken is fully cooked using a meat thermometer. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a significant difference in flavor and texture. Try to choose organic when possible. Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to modify the spices according to your heat preference. If you love it spicy, add some sliced jalapeños! Make Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance, but keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve. This will keep the greens fresh and crisp.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 480mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6g
Keyword Chicken Salad, fall recipe, Healthy Recipe, High-Protein Salad, Southwest Chicken Salad
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!