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Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe: A Flavorful and Healthy Delight

If you’re looking for a bold, zesty, and protein-packed salad, look no further than Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad! This vibrant dish combines grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a creamy southwestern dressing for a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, looking for a healthy lunch or dinner, or just craving something fresh and delicious, this Santa Fe salad is a perfect choice. Let’s dive into how you can make this at home!

Why You’ll Love This Salad

✔ Packed with Protein – Grilled chicken and black beans provide a great protein boost.
✔ Loaded with Flavor – A mix of spices, creamy dressing, and fresh veggies makes every bite delicious.
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Full of fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.
✔ Quick & Easy – Can be made in 30 minutes and is perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Juice of 1 lime

For the Salad:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 avocado, sliced

• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (optional)

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For the Creamy Southwest Dressing:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp honey

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Rub this marinade over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.

3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

1. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.

2. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

3. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey, and spices.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.

2. Add grilled chicken slices on top.

3. Drizzle with the creamy southwest dressing.

4. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro if desired.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Toss the salad gently to coat everything in the dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy the bold flavors of this Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad!

Tips for the Best Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad

✔ Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and ripe avocado make a huge difference in flavor.

✔ Marinate the Chicken Longer – The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavors will be.

✔ Make it Spicy – Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for extra heat.

✔ Meal Prep Friendly – Store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Health Benefits of Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad

✅ High in Protein – Keeps you full longer and helps with muscle recovery.
✅ Rich in Fiber – Black beans, corn, and vegetables promote digestion and gut health.
✅ Healthy Fats – Avocado and olive oil provide heart-healthy fats.
✅ Low in Carbs (if you skip the tortilla strips) – Great for a balanced, clean diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling?
Yes! If you're short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great alternative.

2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
If stored properly, it will stay fresh for 2-3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

3. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the dressing?
You can swap it with sour cream, mayo, or a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad is a flavor-packed, nutrient-dense meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you're making it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Give it a try today and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed meal! 🌮🥗