Santa Fe Chicken Salad
The Santa Fe Chicken Salad is one of those dishes that clicks perfectly into my weekly meal prep routine. It’s vibrant and colorful, packed with flavors that just dance on your palate. I remember the first time I made it; I had a busy week ahead and needed something healthy yet satisfying to fuel my days. Whipping up this salad felt like a breath of fresh air! With the combination of tender chicken, creamy dressing, and crunchy veggies, it’s not only a feast for the eyes but for the soul. I love how versatile it is, too. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or enjoying it as a light dinner, it hits the spot every time. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for my hectic schedule. The Santa Fe Chicken Salad is a staple in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Easy
420 kcal
30 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
Large Skillet, Kids Lunch Box, Ice Pack
Why This Santa Fe Chicken Salad Stands Out
Flavor Explosion
One of the reasons I adore the Santa Fe Chicken Salad is the flavor explosion that hits you with every bite. The creamy dressing beautifully complements the seasoned chicken and fresh vegetables, creating a harmonious balance that keeps me coming back for more.
Healthy and Wholesome
It’s packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the veggies, making it a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. I feel good knowing I’m fueling my body with something healthy.
Customizable
You can easily customize the Santa Fe Chicken Salad to suit your taste preferences! Want to add more crunch? Toss in some nuts or seeds. Prefer a different dressing? Go ahead and switch it up! The possibilities are endless.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This salad is fantastic for meal prep! You can make a large batch, store it in the fridge, and have it ready to go for lunches throughout the week. I love the convenience of having delicious food on hand when life gets busy.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a picnic, a lunchbox treat for the kids, or a light dinner after a long day, the Santa Fe Chicken Salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion. It’s always a hit at gatherings!
Kid-Friendly
Even the pickiest eaters seem to enjoy this salad! The fun textures and bright colors make it appealing to kids, and you can easily involve them in the preparation process, turning it into a family activity.
Ingredients Required for Santa Fe Chicken Salad
When creating the Santa Fe Chicken Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The key players in this dish include tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy dressing that brings everything together. Each ingredient contributes not just to taste but to the overall experience of this refreshing salad.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: A creamy base that adds richness to the dressing.
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt: This provides tanginess and a lighter texture compared to mayonnaise alone.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: A splash of acidity to brighten the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth texture and healthy fats.
- 1 cup milk: This helps to thin out the dressing for a perfect drizzle.
- ½ cup chopped cilantro: Fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves: Adds depth and savory notes.
- ½ jalapeño, stemmed and seeded: For a hint of spice without overpowering the salad.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds warmth and balance.
- 1 tablespoon oil, for cooking: Used to sauté the chicken.
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning: The key seasoning that provides that classic Santa Fe flavor.
- 1 pound chicken breasts, boneless skinless: The star protein that makes this salad hearty.
- 1 large head green lettuce, chopped: Adds crunch and freshness.
- 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides fiber and additional protein.
- 1 cup corn, thawed if using frozen: Sweetness and texture.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of flavor in every bite.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Creaminess and a little extra richness.
- 1 avocado, diced: For a creamy and nutritious topping.
Step by Step Guide for Santa Fe Chicken Salad
Making the Santa Fe Chicken Salad is not only easy but also fun! You’ll enjoy the process as you create a vibrant and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful salad-making adventure!
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Start by preparing the dressing. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, milk, chopped cilantro, garlic cloves, and jalapeño. Blend until smooth and creamy. Once done, refrigerate any leftovers up to one week. This dressing is the heart of your Santa Fe Chicken Salad.
Next, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with taco seasoning. Cook the first side for about six minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another five minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool.
While the chicken is cooling, divide the chopped green lettuce between six lunch containers or bowls. This creates a lovely base for your salad.
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Now, it’s time to add the toppings! Spoon in some black beans and corn on top of the lettuce. These ingredients bring great texture and protein to your Santa Fe Chicken Salad.
Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, cut it into 1-inch pieces and distribute them evenly over the salads. This ensures everyone gets a hearty portion of chicken!
Add cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and avocado as the final toppings. These colorful ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also make the salad visually appealing.
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Lastly, pack the Jalapeño Ranch Dressing into mini sauce containers for easy transport if you’re taking this salad on the go. Seal the containers and your Santa Fe Chicken Salad is ready to be enjoyed!
Things Worth Knowing
- Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste your dressing before serving. If you feel it needs more kick, add a touch more lime juice or jalapeño.
- Storing the Salad: If you’re making this salad in advance, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
- Cooking Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly, which is essential for safety.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients, particularly the vegetables and herbs.
Making Adjustments
Adapting the Santa Fe Chicken Salad to suit your needs is easy and fun! Here are several tips for making this dish your own.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days.
- Freezing: The salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the chicken separately if needed.
- Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread or tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled veggies or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Extra Spice: If you like it spicy, consider adding more jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves six, but you can easily halve or double it based on your needs.
Great Combinations for Santa Fe Chicken Salad
Serving the Santa Fe Chicken Salad is all about creativity and enjoying its vibrant flavors. Here are some great combinations and ideas:
- Serve with Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the salad.
- Great for Lunch Boxes: Perfect for a nutritious lunch at work or school. Just pack the dressing separately!
- Picnic Delight: Take it along for a picnic; it’s refreshing and filling.
- Seasonal Variations: In summer, add fresh fruits like strawberries or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- Winter Warm-Up: Pair it with a warm soup for a comforting winter meal.
- Gatherings and BBQs: It’s a fantastic dish to serve at gatherings, BBQs, or potlucks as it appeals to many.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Santa Fe Chicken Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and freshness. Each bite reminds you of sunny days and delightful gatherings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Your taste buds will thank you!
Santa Fe Chicken Salad
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Kids Lunch Box
- ice pack
Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ jalapeño, stemmed and seeded
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon oil, for cooking
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
- 1 pound chicken breasts, boneless skinless
- 1 large head green lettuce, chopped
- 15 ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, thawed if using frozen
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, diced
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine all the dressing ingredients and blend until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate leftovers up to one week.
- Heat oil inside a large pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with taco seasoning and cook the first side for 6 minutes and flip, cooking the other side for another 5 minutes, until the internal temperature has reached 165F. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Divide the chopped lettuce between 6 lunch containers. Top with black beans and corn.
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and distribute them over the salad. Top with cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado.
- Pack the Jalapeño Ranch Dressing into mini sauce containers and send with the salads.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days.
- Freezing: The salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the chicken separately if needed.
- Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread or tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled veggies or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Extra Spice: If you like it spicy, consider adding more jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves six, but you can easily halve or double it based on your needs.
