Santa Fe Salad (Southwest Chicken Salad) – Flavorful, Fresh, and Satisfying
Struggling to find quick, healthy meals that don’t skimp on flavor? This Santa Fe Salad (Southwest Chicken Salad) is the answer. Packed with juicy grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing, this salad brings the bold flavors of the Southwest right to your table. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for a weeknight dinner idea or meal prepping for the week, this salad is light, nutritious, and full of character.
Why Make Santa Fe Salad?
- A wholesome balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
- Bright, colorful ingredients that are as appealing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds.
- Easy to customize with toppings and dressings of your choice.
- Perfect as a main course or served as a hearty side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- 6 cups romaine or mixed greens, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (grilled or roasted)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese
- ½ cup tortilla strips
- 2 green onions, chopped
For the Southwest Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through, then slice thinly.
- Build the salad base: In a large salad bowl, layer the chopped romaine or mixed greens.
- Add the toppings: Arrange cherry tomatoes, roasted corn, black beans, avocado slices, and green onions over the greens. Add sliced chicken on top.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle the Southwest dressing over the salad. Sprinkle tortilla strips and cheese on top. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Charred corn adds flavor: Grill or roast the corn for a smoky taste.
- Protein options: Swap chicken for shrimp, steak, or tofu.
- Meal prep friendly: Store ingredients separately and assemble just before eating.
- Make it spicier: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the dressing.
Nutrition Benefits
- Chicken: Lean protein to keep you full and energized.
- Avocado: Provides healthy fats and creaminess.
- Black beans: Great plant-based protein and fiber source.
- Corn and tomatoes: Add antioxidants and natural sweetness.
FAQs about Santa Fe Salad (Southwest Chicken Salad)
Q: Can I make this salad vegetarian?
A: Yes. Omit the chicken and add extra beans, roasted vegetables, or grilled tofu.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: The salad (without dressing) lasts up to 3 days in an airtight container. Add dressing before serving.
Q: What dressing works best?
A: A Southwest dressing is traditional, but ranch or chipotle-lime vinaigrette works well too.
Q: Is Santa Fe Salad gluten-free?
A: Yes. Just ensure tortilla strips are gluten-free or leave them out.
Final Thoughts
This Santa Fe Salad (Southwest Chicken Salad) is more than just a salad — it’s a complete meal bursting with flavor, texture, and nutrition. With simple ingredients and bold Southwest-inspired seasoning, it’s the perfect choice for weeknights, meal prep, or healthy lunches.