Scrolling through my favorite recipes one afternoon, I stumbled upon a gem that instantly sparked joy: the Santa Fe Salad. This colorful dish brings together grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and a zesty peanut-cilantro dressing that’s both healthy and customizable. Perfect for anyone who craves a filling lunch without the heaviness, this salad is not just about taste; it’s a vibrant explosion of textures—from tender chicken to crunchy tortilla strips. Plus, it’s packed with high protein, making it an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their meals without relying on fast food. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy dinner or prepping it for the week ahead, each bite is a delightful invitation to savor freshness. Ready to dive into this delicious experience? Let’s create a salad that not only nourishes but also satisfies your cravings! Why You’ll Love This Santa Fe Salad Vibrant ingredients: The combination of grilled chicken, black beans, and roasted corn delivers a rainbow of colors and nutrients. Zesty dressing: The peanut-cilantro dressing adds a rich, creamy flavor that transforms every bite into a taste sensation. Customizable options: Easily switch out proteins or veggies to suit your taste—try chickpeas for a vegetarian twist or add avocado for creaminess. Quick prep time: This dish is ideal for busy days, taking just minutes to assemble once the chicken is cooked. Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or meal prep for the week—everyone will ask for seconds! Looking for more delicious salad ideas? Check out this refreshing Italian Pasta Salad or try a hearty Beet Spinach Salad for a delicious spin. Santa Fe Salad Ingredients • Dive into the fresh flavors! For the Salad Chicken Breasts – The main protein source; can be grilled, poached, or shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. Romaine Lettuce – This crisp green forms the base of the salad; feel free to substitute with mixed greens for added variety. Roasted Corn – Adds a sweet and crunchy element; consider grilling fresh corn for an extra smoky flavor. Black Beans – Provides essential protein and fiber; canned beans need rinsing, while dry beans require cooking. Shredded Colby Jack Cheese – Offers creaminess and flavor; swap for dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly. Grape Tomatoes – These add a fresh pop of flavor; cherry tomatoes work well as a substitute. Pre-made Tortilla Strips – An optional crunchy topping; omit for fewer calories, or use croutons for a different texture. Fresh Cilantro – Essential for vibrant dressing flavor; if you’re not a fan, parsley can be a milder substitute. For the Peanut-Cilantro Dressing Peanut Butter – The creamy base of the dressing; can be swapped with almond or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies. Red Wine Vinegar – Adds tanginess to balance the flavors; you can substitute with apple cider vinegar if desired. Lime Juice – Fresh lime juice brightens the salad; freshly squeezed is always best! Brown Sugar – Helps balance the acidity of the dressing; honey could be an alternative for added sweetness. Minced Garlic – Adds depth to the dressing; for a subtler flavor, use garlic powder. Sesame Oil – Offers a nutty aroma that enhances the dressing; olive oil can replace it if needed. Lime Zest – Boosts the lime flavor in the dressing; you can omit this if you’re short on limes. Olive Oil – Provides a smooth texture to the dressing; use a high-quality oil for the best flavor. This Santa Fe Salad is not only beautiful and delicious, but it’s also incredibly customizable, making it a great choice for those who love to experiment in the kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Santa Fe Salad Step 1: Cook Chicken Begin by marinating the chicken breasts in teriyaki marinade for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the meat is no longer pink. Once cooked, let it rest before slicing into strips. Step 2: Make Dressing While the chicken is cooling, prepare the peanut-cilantro dressing. In a food processor, combine fresh cilantro, peanut butter, red wine vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, lime zest, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary, and season with salt and pepper to taste for that zesty kick reminiscent of the Santa Fe Salad. Step 3: Assemble Salad Next, wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the roasted corn and rinsed black beans for a colorful mix of textures and flavors. Toss the ingredients together gently and then divide the mixture evenly between serving plates, creating a vibrant base for your scrumptious Santa Fe Salad. Step 4: Top Salad Layer the sliced chicken strips over the salad, spreading them evenly to provide ample protein in each serving. Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese and halved grape tomatoes atop the salad, adding a burst of color and freshness. Finally, generously drizzle the peanut-cilantro dressing over the entire salad, enhancing the flavors beautifully. Step 5: Finish For the perfect crunch, top the salad with pre-made tortilla strips. This adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender ingredients below. Serve immediately for the best experience, allowing everyone to enjoy this vibrant and satisfying Santa Fe Salad at its freshest, perfect for any meal of the day. What to Serve with Santa Fe Salad Create a colorful, satisfying meal by pairing this fresh salad with delicious side dishes and drinks. Crispy Tortilla Chips: These crunchy snacks add a delightful texture that complements the salad’s fresh ingredients, perfect for dipping in the zesty dressing. Mexican Street Corn: This grilled corn dish, slathered in creamy sauce and spices, echoes the sweet corn in the salad while adding irresistible layers of flavor. Avocado Toast: The creamy richness of avocado on toasted bread pairs wonderfully with the crispness of the salad, offering a satisfying and nutritious taste combination. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances the meal’s lightness, offering a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the Santa Fe Salad. Lime-Infused Sparkling Water: The tartness of lime in sparkling water matches the zesty notes of the salad dressing, creating a bubbly refreshment that cleanses the palate. Black Bean Quinoa Bowl: This protein-packed grain bowl with black beans harmonizes perfectly with the salad, offering a hearty, nutritious option that pairs well with the dressing. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: For a seafood twist, these juicy, marinated shrimp add a smoky flavor that complements the salad beautifully, making your meal truly memorable. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish on a sweet note! This rich, creamy dessert offers a unique chocolate experience that makes every meal feel special while keeping it healthy. Chips and Guacamole: Creamy guacamole alongside crispy chips is a comforting side that perfectly matches the salad’s fresh and zesty components. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Santa Fe Salad in advance is a game changer for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook and slice the chicken up to 3 days ahead—just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its juicy texture. Similarly, the peanut-cilantro dressing can be blended and refrigerated for up to 5 days, keeping all its vibrant flavors intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply chop and mix the romaine, roasted corn, and black beans; layer the chicken and dressing right before enjoying. This ensures your salad stays fresh and delicious, perfect for busy days when you need a quick yet nutritious meal! Tips for the Best Santa Fe Salad Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked at 165°F for safe consumption—using a meat thermometer can help avoid undercooking. Smooth Dressing: For a silky peanut-cilantro dressing, blend thoroughly and scrape down the sides of the food processor. This prevents lumps and enhances flavor integration. Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest produce possible for the salad; crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes significantly elevate the salad’s flavor and texture. Tortilla Strip Alternatives: If you want a healthier option, consider baking tortillas for a lighter crunch instead of pre-made strips, which can contain added calories. Customization is Key: Feel free to personalize your Santa Fe Salad by swapping chicken for chickpeas for vegetarian enjoyment or experimenting with different dressings to suit your taste. Santa Fe Salad Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this Santa Fe Salad and add your personal touch to enhance its delightful flavors! Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based option rich in protein. Avocado Twist: Add creamy avocado slices for a luscious texture that complements the salad beautifully. Grain Booster: Substitute quinoa for the black beans to introduce a nutty flavor and added fiber. Dressing Alternatives: Try a honey balsamic or ranch dressing for an exciting flavor change; each will add a different twist! Fresh Herb Swap: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, use fresh parsley for a milder touch—still fresh and flavorful! Crunch Options: Use baked tortilla chips instead of strips for a healthier, lighter crunch. You could also consider adding some roasted nuts for a satisfying bite! Spicy Kick: If you love heat, throw in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing for a fiery touch. Cheese Variations: Swap the shredded Colby Jack for feta or goat cheese to add a tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients. If you’re in the mood for more salad inspiration, don’t miss out on making a refreshing Herb Radish Salad or a rich Balsamic Steak Salad that everyone will love! How to Store and Freeze Santa Fe Salad Fridge: Store any leftover Santa Fe Salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day for optimal freshness. Keep dressing separate for best results. Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to texture changes, if needed, you can freeze cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using. Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid reheating the salad as fresh ingredients lose their crispness. Preparation Tip: Assemble the salad fresh to maintain its vibrant flavors and textures, enjoying every crunchy bite! Santa Fe Salad Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use for the Santa Fe Salad? Absolutely! For the Santa Fe Salad, grilled, poached, or shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully. If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, giving you that tender, juicy protein without the fuss of cooking! How should I store leftover Santa Fe Salad? You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. However, I recommend keeping the dressing separate to ensure the lettuce stays crisp. Simply drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to retain that fresh crunch! Can I freeze any part of the Santa Fe Salad? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. To do so, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and label with the date. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet until warmed through. How do I prevent my salad from becoming soggy? Great question! To maintain a fresh crunch in your Santa Fe Salad, store the dressing separately and only add it to your portions just before eating. Also, keep ingredients like tomatoes and tortilla strips on the side until ready to assemble. This ensures your salad doesn’t get soggy! Are there any common allergens in the Santa Fe Salad? The Santa Fe Salad contains common allergens like peanuts from the dressing, and dairy from the cheese. If you’re serving someone with allergies, you can replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use a dairy-free cheese for a safe, delightful version everyone can enjoy! What if I don’t have certain ingredients on hand? No worries at all! This salad is fully customizable. Feel free to swap chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or use spinach instead of romaine for a bit of variety. If you’re low on fresh cilantro, parsley makes a great substitute. The more the merrier when it comes to creativity in the kitchen! Santa Fe Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fully Customizable! Discover the delicious Santa Fe Salad, a healthy mix of grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and zesty dressing, perfect for a filling lunch. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad2 pieces Chicken Breasts Grilled, poached, or shredded rotisserie chicken4 cups Romaine Lettuce Or mixed greens1 cup Roasted Corn Grill fresh corn for extra smoky flavor1 can Black Beans Rinse if canned, cook if dry1 cup Shredded Colby Jack Cheese Can be substituted for dairy-free cheese1 cup Grape Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes work well as a substitute1 cup Pre-made Tortilla Strips Optional topping, omit for fewer calories1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Or parsley as a substituteFor the Peanut-Cilantro Dressing1/2 cup Peanut Butter Can substitute with almond or sunflower seed butter1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar2 tablespoons Lime Juice Freshly squeezed is best1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Honey can be used as an alternative1 clove Minced Garlic Can use garlic powder for subtler flavor1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Olive oil can replace this1 teaspoon Lime Zest Can omit if short on limes1/4 cup Olive Oil Use high-quality for best flavor Equipment skilletFood ProcessorMixing bowlMeat Thermometer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Santa Fe SaladBegin by marinating the chicken breasts in teriyaki marinade for at least 30 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.Prepare the peanut-cilantro dressing by blending cilantro, peanut butter, red wine vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, lime zest, and olive oil until smooth.Wash and chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large bowl. Add roasted corn and rinsed black beans, tossing gently.Layer sliced chicken over the salad, sprinkle with cheese and tomatoes, then drizzle with dressing.Top with tortilla strips and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesCustomize the salad by adjusting proteins and adding your favorite ingredients for a personalized experience. 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