Santa Fe Salad with Chicken

About This Recipe

This recipe is a copycat of the popular Santa Fe Chicken Salad from Chili's, which has the same dressing and toppings.

What makes this salad so good is the layers of flavors and textures. It's piled high with toppings of creamy avocado, sweet corn, diced tomato, sliced chicken and crispy tortilla strips.

The ingredient list isn't too long, and it's a salad that's a full, satisfying meal in less that 30 minutes. This salad checks all the boxes to become a regular, weekly staple.

Lately I can't get enough of flavors like these in a salad, and have also made a similar Tex-Mex Chopped Salad and Chicken Fajita Salad. Add these all to your list of recipes to try if you love southwest, tex-mex, or Mexican-inspired flavors!

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this Santa Fe Salad recipe. The full recipe and list of ingredients can be found at the bottom of the page.

For the salad:

• Chicken breasts
• Romaine lettuce
• Avocado
• Canned corn
• Roma tomatoes
• Cilantro
• Tortilla strips

For the dressing:

• Mayonnaise
• Lime juice
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Onion powder

How to Make Santa Fe Salad

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make 4 thin chicken cutlets.
2. In a small bowl, stir together 2 teaspoons chili powder and 2 teaspoons cumin. Sprinkle the mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts. 
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken and cook, covered, 5 - 6 minutes on each side. The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. Set aside to cool and then slice into strips. 
4. While the chicken cooks, in a medium bowl or jar, stir together the dressing ingredients. Add additional water, if needed, to thin the dressing to your desired consistency. 
5. Add all of the salad ingredients (except for the tortilla strips) to a large bowl, drizzle as much of the dressing over the top as preferred and toss to mix. 
6. Top with tortilla strips. Optionally, sprinkle with additional fresh lime juice and freshly-ground black pepper.

Ingredient Notes

Chicken Breasts: This recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are cooked in a simple blend of cumin and chili powder. You could also use grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken. Or swap chicken for tofu or black beans to make the recipe vegan.

Romaine Lettuce: Fresh and crisp romaine lettuce provides the perfect base for this salad. You could mix in other greens like spinach or arugula for added variety.

Canned Corn: Use canned corn for ease and convenience, or substitute with frozen or fresh corn when it's in season.

Roma Tomatoes: Juicy Roma tomatoes give sweetness and acidity to the salad. Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are alternatives.

Cilantro: If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can leave this out.

Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips give this salad a satisfying crunch. You could also crush up tortilla chips and sprinkle them over your salad.

Other Topping Ideas: Other ideas for tasty toppings include red onion, pinto beans, pico de gallo, sour cream, cheddar cheese or green onions.

About The Dressing

The dressing for this salad is a creamy Santa Fe Sauce dressing. It's made with a base of mayo, a splash of lime juice, an a mild hint of spice (from the chili powder).

It's incredible. And it gives the perfect balance to the bold flavors of the salad.

Dressing Options

Here are a few other dressing ideas that would be tasty either as homemade or store-bought alternatives:

• Chipotle Ranch
• Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
• Avocado Ranch

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce may wilt slightly, so it's best enjoyed fresh.

To preserve the texture of your salad, mix and store your dressing separately and toss your salad just before serving.

Top Tips

1. Making the Dressing: Once you mix your dressing, add additional water (a small splash at a time), until it reached your desired consistency.
2. Greek Yogurt Dressing: If you prefer, you can swap out the mayo in the dressing for Greek Yogurt.
3. Make is Spicy: If you're craving some spice, add cayenne to your Santa Fe Dressing or sliced jalapeños to your salad for some heat.
4. Slicing the Chicken: Let your chicken rest and then slice it in very thin strips so that it's easy to eat a piece of chicken with each bite of salad.

Similar Recipes

• Southwest Chicken Salad
• Tex-Mex Chopped Salad
• Chicken Fajita Salad