Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad

Ingredients

For the Salad Base:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (skinless, boneless for lean protein)
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup red cabbage, thinly shredded
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned (drained)
• 1 medium avocado, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• 1/4 cup baked tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (for crunch)
• Sliced jalapeños, for a spicy kick

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Cook the chicken breast if not already prepared. You can grill, poach, or bake it. Allow it to cool before shredding or dicing.
2. Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Ensure the lettuce and cabbage are crisp and dry for the best texture.
3. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn if using canned versions.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
2. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, red cabbage, grape tomatoes, black beans, corn, and red onion. Toss to mix.
2. Add the cooked chicken, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
3. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. For added crunch, sprinkle baked tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips on top.
2. Add sliced jalapeños if desired.
3. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving; Recipe Serves 4)

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• Calories: 250
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 280mg