Healthy Santa Fe Salad with Chicken

There are certain meals that feel like sunshine in a bowl, and this Healthy Santa Fe Salad with Chicken is one of them. It’s the kind of dish you crave on a warm afternoon, after a long day at work, or when you want something fresh yet satisfying without feeling heavy. Inspired by Southwestern flavors and the vibrant food culture of the American Southwest, this salad brings together colorful vegetables, tender chicken, and bold spices in a way that feels both comforting and energizing.

The idea for this recipe came from a desire to recreate a restaurant-style Santa Fe salad at home, but in a lighter, more nourishing way. By focusing on wholesome ingredients, balanced textures, and a creamy yet healthy dressing, this salad becomes a go-to meal you can enjoy year-round. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving a crowd, it’s a recipe that never feels boring.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Santa Fe Salad

This salad is more than just a side dish. It’s a complete, well-rounded meal packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. The seasoned chicken adds heartiness, while the fresh vegetables keep everything crisp and refreshing. Black beans and corn give it that classic Santa Fe character, making every bite satisfying.

Another reason this recipe stands out is how adaptable it is. You can grill the chicken outdoors, cook it on a stovetop, or even use leftover chicken when you’re short on time. The dressing is creamy without being heavy, and the spices bring warmth without overwhelming the palate. It’s a salad that feels indulgent while still supporting a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients for Healthy Santa Fe Salad with Chicken

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g / 1 lb)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the salad:

• 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (about 240 g / 8 oz)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (about 150 g / 5 oz)

• 1 cup cooked corn kernels (150 g / 5 oz)

• 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained (170 g / 6 oz)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 150 g / 5 oz)

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (about 70 g / 2.5 oz)

• 1 avocado, sliced (about 200 g / 7 oz)

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (10 g / ⅓ oz)

For the creamy dressing:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (120 g / 4 oz)

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (30 ml)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon honey

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2–3 tablespoons water, as needed for consistency

How to Make Healthy Santa Fe Salad with Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken, as this step builds the foundation of flavor for the entire salad. Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with paper towels. This small but important step helps the seasoning adhere better and allows the chicken to cook evenly, creating a lightly caramelized exterior instead of steaming in the pan.

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are evenly mixed and form a fragrant paste. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure every surface is well coated. The blend of spices delivers warmth, depth, and a subtle smokiness that defines the Santa Fe flavor profile.

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Heat a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium heat. Allow the pan to warm fully before adding the chicken; this ensures a good sear and prevents sticking. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Avoid moving the chicken too much while it cooks, as this helps develop a flavorful crust. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F and the juices run clear.

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces, making it easy to distribute evenly throughout the salad.

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Step 2: Make the Dressing

While the chicken rests, prepare the creamy dressing that ties the entire salad together. In a medium bowl, add the Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The yogurt creates a creamy base, while the lime juice adds brightness and balances the warm spices.

Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition. This allows you to control the consistency of the dressing, whether you prefer it thick and spoonable or slightly thinner for drizzling. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice for tang or a pinch of salt for balance. Set the dressing aside so the flavors can meld while you assemble the salad.

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Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Choose a large salad bowl to give yourself plenty of room to mix without bruising the ingredients. Add the chopped romaine lettuce as the base, followed by the cherry tomatoes, cooked corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro. Each ingredient contributes a different texture and flavor, from crisp and refreshing to hearty and slightly sweet.

Gently toss the salad using tongs or clean hands, lifting from the bottom to distribute the ingredients evenly. Take care not to overmix, as you want the vegetables to stay vibrant and intact. This step ensures that every serving has a balanced mix of flavors and colors.

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Step 4: Add Chicken and Finish

Arrange the sliced chicken over the top of the salad, allowing it to rest naturally among the vegetables rather than stirring it in too aggressively. Add the sliced avocado last, placing it gently on top to preserve its creamy texture and fresh appearance.

Just before serving, drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad or serve it on the side to let everyone dress their own portion. This keeps the salad crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy. Give each plate a light toss if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. This final step brings together all the components into a fresh, satisfying Santa Fe–inspired meal.

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Tips for the Best Santa Fe Salad

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference in this recipe. Crisp lettuce and ripe avocado enhance both texture and flavor. If you prefer extra crunch, toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can be sprinkled on top.

For meal prep, store the components separately. Keep the dressing in a sealed container, the salad vegetables in an airtight bowl, and the chicken sliced and refrigerated. This keeps everything fresh for up to three days and makes assembly quick and easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this Santa Fe salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep when stored properly. The key is to keep the components separate until you’re ready to eat. Prepare the chicken, chop the vegetables, and mix the dressing in advance, but avoid combining everything too early. Store the lettuce in one container with a paper towel to absorb moisture, the vegetables in another, and the chicken in a sealed container. The dressing should be kept in a small jar. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble and toss. This method keeps the salad crisp and flavorful for several days.

2. Is this Healthy Santa Fe Salad suitable for weight management?

This salad is a great option for those focusing on balanced nutrition. It includes lean protein from the chicken, healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, and fiber-rich ingredients like beans, corn, and vegetables. These components help promote fullness and sustained energy. The dressing uses Greek yogurt instead of heavier alternatives, keeping calories in check while still offering a creamy texture. Portion control is still important, but overall this salad fits well into a mindful eating plan.

3. Can I customize the ingredients to my taste?

Absolutely. One of the strengths of this recipe is its flexibility. You can swap romaine lettuce for mixed greens, add cucumber for extra crunch, or include roasted sweet potatoes for a heartier version. If you enjoy a bit of heat, finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne can be added to the dressing. The base flavors are versatile enough to support many personal preferences without losing the Santa Fe essence.

4. What makes this salad “Santa Fe” style?

Santa Fe-style dishes are inspired by Southwestern flavors, often featuring ingredients like corn, beans, peppers, and warm spices such as cumin and chili powder. This salad reflects that influence through its ingredient selection and seasoning profile. The combination of fresh vegetables with gently spiced chicken and a tangy, creamy dressing creates a balance that is both vibrant and comforting, capturing the spirit of Santa Fe cuisine in a lighter, modern way.

Final Thoughts

The Healthy Santa Fe Salad with Chicken is proof that nutritious food doesn’t have to be bland or repetitive. It brings together bold flavors, satisfying textures, and colorful ingredients in a way that feels exciting every time you make it. This is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes part of your regular rotation because it’s reliable, adaptable, and genuinely enjoyable to eat.

What truly sets this salad apart is how it bridges the gap between comfort food and wholesome cooking. The seasoned chicken delivers warmth and depth, while the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing keep the dish light and refreshing. It works just as well for a casual lunch as it does for a family dinner or even a potluck gathering where you want to impress without stress.

As you make this recipe your own, you’ll likely find new ways to enjoy it throughout the year. Serve it chilled in summer, slightly warm with freshly cooked chicken in cooler months, or pack it for busy weekdays when you need something nourishing and quick. No matter how you enjoy it, this Healthy Santa Fe Salad with Chicken is a reminder that eating well can be both simple and deeply satisfying.

Healthy Santa Fe Salad with Chicken

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A fresh and satisfying Southwestern-inspired salad made with seasoned chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, wholesome dressing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (450 g / 1 lb)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (240 g / 8 oz)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g / 5 oz)

• 1 cup cooked corn kernels (150 g / 5 oz)

• 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained (170 g / 6 oz)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced (150 g / 5 oz)

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (70 g / 2.5 oz)

• 1 avocado, sliced (200 g / 7 oz)

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (10 g / ⅓ oz)

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (120 g / 4 oz)

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (30 ml)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon honey

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2–3 tablespoons water

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Instructions

• Mix olive oil and spices, rub over chicken, and cook until fully done. Rest and slice.

• Whisk all dressing ingredients, adding water until smooth.

• Combine lettuce, vegetables, beans, corn, and cilantro in a bowl.

• Top with chicken and avocado, then drizzle with dressing before serving.

Notes

Store salad components separately for best freshness. Dressing can be made up to three days in advance and kept refrigerated.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Michelle Davis