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Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fun

This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is a colorful, high-protein dish perfect for meal prep, combining vibrant ingredients for a nutritious and delicious experience.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups cooked shredded chicken breast pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken speeds up prep time
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 1 small red onion finely chopped
  • 1 medium avocado add fresh just before serving
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 0.25 cup cilantro fresh
For the Dressing
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • 2 medium limes juiced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder adjust for heat preference
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese can be omitted or swapped with vegan cheese

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken breast, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and rinsed black beans. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl and gently toss until fully coated.
  4. Carefully fold in the diced avocado and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired.
  5. You can enjoy your salad immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 28gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For meal prep, store salad and dressing separately to keep fresh. Adjust seasonings to taste and consider adding quinoa or lentils for extra protein.

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