High Protein Spicy Chicken Salad

Indulge in a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich meal with this High Protein Spicy Chicken Salad—a perfect balance of bold spices and wholesome ingredients. Tender, pan-seared chicken breast is coated in a smoky, zesty seasoning blend of paprika, cumin, garlic, and cayenne, delivering a protein punch with just the right amount of heat. Paired with crisp salad greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing infused with fresh lime, honey, and hot sauce, this vibrant dish is both satisfying and healthy. Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping, offering a guilt-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this high-protein, spicy chicken salad is a must-try for health-conscious food lovers.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 0.5 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium avocado, diced
• 0.25 cup feta cheese (optional)
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Preheat a skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, cumin powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 5

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and heat until shimmering.

Step 6

Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and their internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 7

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.

Step 8

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, and feta cheese (if using).

Step 9

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, hot sauce, and chopped cilantro to make the dressing.

Step 10

Toss the salad with the dressing until evenly coated.

Step 11

Top the salad with the sliced chicken.

Step 12

Serve immediately and enjoy this high-protein meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1191.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1411.9

Total Fat 77.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 20.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8g
Cholesterol 350.7mg	0%
Sodium 2341.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 51.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.8g	0%
Total Sugars 19.1g
Protein 129.1g	0%

Vitamin D 17.4IU	0%
Calcium 533.5mg	0%
Iron 9.2mg	0%
Potassium 2941.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.1%

Protein: 36.3%

Carbs: 14.6%