Santa Fe Chicken Salad from Chili's features grilled chicken breast, fresh mixed greens, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, and crispy tortilla strips, tossed in a zesty Santa Fe dressing for a vibrant, flavorful crunch.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Salad mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Cheese grater
- Can opener (for black beans/corn)
- Colander (for rinsing beans/corn)
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Salad serving plates or bowls
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup canned black beans
- 1 cup canned corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup tortilla strips
- 1/4 cup Santa Fe dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
When selecting ingredients for your Santa Fe Chicken Salad, opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts to ensure tenderness and flavor. Use canned black beans and corn that are low in sodium, rinsed thoroughly in a colander to reduce excess salt and improve taste. Shredded cheddar cheese and tortilla strips add essential texture and richness, so choose full-fat cheese and crispy tortilla strips for authentic flavor. The Santa Fe dressing is key to the salad's zesty profile; you can use a store-bought version or make your own with chili powder, cumin, and lime juice for freshness. Your Santa Fe Chicken Salad from Chili's copycat menu will capture the vibrant, bold flavors that make the original dish irresistible.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil.
- Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes; slice into strips.
- Rinse and drain black beans and corn using a colander.
- In a large salad mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro.
- Add sliced grilled chicken on top of salad mixture.
- Sprinkle tortilla strips over salad.
- Drizzle Santa Fe dressing evenly over the salad.
- Toss salad gently with tongs to combine, if desired, or serve as assembled.
- Divide salad onto serving plates or bowls and enjoy.
Substitution
Santa Fe Chicken Salad from Chili's copycat menu combines grilled chicken breast, fresh mixed greens, black beans, corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy tortilla strips, tossed in a zesty Santa Fe dressing. If fresh cilantro is unavailable, substitute with dried cilantro or fresh parsley for a similar herbaceous flavor. When grilling is not an option, cook the chicken breasts in a grill pan or even bake them, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165degF for food safety. You can use homemade tortilla strips by baking or frying cut corn tortillas if store-bought strips are not accessible. For a lighter variation, swap shredded cheddar with reduced-fat cheese or omit tortilla strips to reduce calories without sacrificing texture.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly coated with olive oil and spices to enhance flavor and prevent sticking during grilling. Let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain juiciness and improve texture. Rinse canned black beans and corn thoroughly in a colander to remove excess sodium and preserve freshness. When tossing your Santa Fe Chicken Salad, add the tortilla strips last to keep them crispy and your salad crunchy.
Nutritions
Santa Fe Chicken Salad provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The grilled chicken breast delivers around 26 grams of lean protein per serving, essential for muscle repair and satiety. Black beans and corn contribute dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates, supporting digestion and sustained energy levels. Your meal also includes calcium and vitamin A from shredded cheddar cheese and mixed greens, respectively, making it a nutritious option for a flavorful lunch or dinner.
Storage
Store Santa Fe Chicken Salad components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep grilled chicken refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, while mixed greens, black beans, corn, cheese, and tortilla strips should be stored in cool, dry conditions; dressing stays best in a sealed bottle or jar. When ready to enjoy, combine ingredients and toss gently to preserve the salad's crisp texture and vibrant flavors for your meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken with blackened shrimp or grilled tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option that still pairs well with the Santa Fe dressing. Swap cheddar cheese for crumbled cotija or pepper jack cheese to introduce varied textures and a slightly different flavor profile. Consider roasting the corn and beans instead of rinsing canned versions to enhance smokiness and depth. Using a homemade chipotle-lime dressing instead of store-bought Santa Fe dressing offers a fresh, tangy twist that complements the spice blend on the protein.
Allergies
Santa Fe Chicken Salad from Chili's may pose allergy risks due to its inclusion of dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and potential gluten in store-bought tortilla strips and Santa Fe dressing. Black beans and corn generally have a low allergenic profile but can cause sensitivities in rare cases. If you have food allergies, ensure your ingredients are free from allergens and verify the dressing's components to protect your health.
Why this recipe?
Santa Fe Chicken Salad from Chili's Restaurant captivates diners with its bold combination of grilled chicken, fresh greens, black beans, corn, and shredded cheese, all tossed in a zesty Santa Fe dressing. The flavorful blend of textures and Southwest-inspired ingredients creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Making your own copycat version allows you to control the quality and customization of ingredients, replicating the vibrant flavors in the comfort of your home. Your homemade salad offers an affordable, fresh alternative that stays true to the original's hearty and spicy profile.