Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing is a vibrant dish that brings together flavors and textures in every bite. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a light lunch, a dinner party, or a picnic with friends. Packed with protein-rich chicken, hearty black beans, and sweet roasted corn, it’s topped with a zesty lime dressing that elevates the meal to a new level of deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Each component is fresh and flavorful, ensuring a healthy yet satisfying meal.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad is an easy option for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfectly portioned for leftovers, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week.
• Suitable for Various Diets: This recipe is gluten-free, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing efficient and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for cooking the chicken and roasting the corn to perfection.
• Mixing bowl: Keeps all your ingredients together for easy tossing and serving.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of vegetables and slicing of chicken.

Ingredients

Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing is a fresh, hearty salad packed with black beans, roasted corn and tortilla strips tossed with a zesty lime dressing! {GF}

For the Salad

• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 1 – 1.5 pounds)
• 3 teaspoons Homemade taco seasoning (or your favorite store bought seasoning)
• 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 2 green onions (white and green parts, sliced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 large corn cob (husks and silks removed)
• 1 avocado (seeded and diced)
• (Serve with grated cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips if desired)

For the Dressing

• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (may substitute with honey)
• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped cilantro
• salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Sprinkle with taco seasoning evenly over both sides.
3. Let stand at room temperature for about 1 hour.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Cook the chicken breast for about 8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Remove from heat, cover loosely with foil, and allow resting for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

1. While the chicken cooks, place the corn on the grill.
2. Cook on all sides, turning every 3-4 minutes until blackened.
3. Remove from heat; let cool slightly before cutting kernels off the cob.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, green onions, cherry tomatoes, black beans, roasted corn kernels, diced avocado, and cheddar cheese.
2. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
3. Serve on plates topped with sliced chicken and tortilla strips as desired.

Enjoy your Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing as a filling meal that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor!

How to Serve Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing is a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a light lunch, this salad can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors.

Serve as a Main Course

• This salad is hearty enough to be the main dish. The combination of protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans keeps you satisfied.

Pair with Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and make for a fun side. You can use them to scoop up the salad for a delightful experience.

Add Grated Cheese on Top

• Sprinkle some grated cheese over the salad to elevate the flavor profile. Cheddar or cotija works wonderfully here.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top adds freshness. It also enhances the visual appeal of your salad.

Serve with Lime Wedges

• Providing lime wedges gives guests an option to add extra zesty flavor. A squeeze of lime brightens up the entire dish.

How to Perfect Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

To create a truly exceptional Santa Fe Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs dramatically improve flavor and nutrition.
• Grill the Chicken: Grilling adds a smoky depth that complements the zesty dressing beautifully.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating your salad for about 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together nicely.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak the taco seasoning according to your taste preference for spiciness.
• Experiment with Dressings: Try different dressings like avocado lime or ranch for varied flavors while keeping it fresh.
• Make Ahead: Prepare individual components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

This salad pairs well with various side dishes, making your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the Mexican theme.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Mixed seasonal veggies grilled until tender add both color and nutrients.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enriched with lime juice pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a comforting contrast to this zesty salad.
5. Black Bean Soup: A warm bowl of black bean soup makes an excellent accompaniment.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides sweetness that balances out savory elements of the meal.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: This aromatic rice harmonizes perfectly with the salad’s flavors, enhancing each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish shines.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously and let it sit before cooking for better taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using canned or old vegetables can affect the salad’s freshness. Opt for fresh produce whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
• Ignoring the dressing balance: Too much or too little dressing can overwhelm or underwhelm the salad. Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed for a balanced taste.
• Forgetting about texture: Skipping crispy elements like tortilla strips can make your salad less exciting. Include crunchy toppings for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

• Not recommended, as freezing may compromise the texture of fresh ingredients like lettuce and avocado.
• If you must freeze, consider storing only the grilled chicken separately.

Reheating Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place chicken on a baking sheet until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing?

This salad combines grilled chicken, fresh veggies, black beans, and roasted corn, all drizzled with a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing meal.

Can I customize my Santa Fe Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins like shrimp or tofu, swap out vegetables based on your preferences, or change up the dressing.

How do I make this salad gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free taco seasoning and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time for this delicious salad is around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick meal.

Is Santa Fe Chicken Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with lean protein, healthy fats from avocado, and plenty of fiber from beans and veggies, making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing is not only vibrant and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or swapping out proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to delight anyone at your table!

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Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Santa Fe Chicken Salad with Tangy Lime Dressing is a colorful and refreshing dish that perfectly balances taste and nutrition. This salad features juicy grilled chicken, protein-packed black beans, sweet roasted corn, and fresh vegetables, all tossed together in a zesty lime dressing that adds a delightful tang. Ideal for light lunches, dinner parties, or picnics, this versatile salad can be customized to suit your preferences. With its quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prep throughout the week. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or alongside your favorite sides, this Santa Fe Chicken Salad is sure to please every palate.

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Ingredients

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• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts (1 – 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 large corn cob (roasted)
• 1 avocado (diced)
• Homemade taco seasoning
• Zesty lime dressing (olive oil, lime juice, maple syrup, cilantro)

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for about an hour.
2. Grill the chicken over medium heat for about 8 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F). Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
3. Grill the corn until blackened on all sides; cool slightly and cut off kernels.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine romaine lettuce, green onions, cherry tomatoes, black beans, roasted corn kernels, diced avocado, and cheese.
5. Toss gently and serve topped with sliced chicken and tortilla strips as desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (about 400g)
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 85mg