Santa Fe salad
Chicken salad
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
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.
Santa Fe chicken salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fresh, wholesome ingredients with a spicy, tangy dressing. The recipe features lean chicken breasts seasoned with chili powder and cumin, which are key spices commonly used in Southwestern cuisine to give the salad its signature taste. The use of romaine lettuce provides a crisp base, while avocado adds creamy richness and essential healthy fats. Canned corn and ripe Roma tomatoes contribute sweetness and juiciness, balancing the smoky flavors of the seasonings. The homemade dressing, made with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and onion powder, offers a creamy yet zesty complement to the salad. Lime juice not only enhances the flavor but also provides a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants. The optional topping of crunchy tortilla strips adds texture, making the salad more satisfying. To prepare, the chicken is sliced into thin cutlets for even cooking and faster preparation. Cooking the chicken covered helps retain moisture and tenderness. Once cooked and cooled, slicing the chicken into strips ensures easy eating and an appealing presentation when tossed with the salad ingredients. This salad is ideal for health-conscious individuals seeking a balanced meal rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins. It works well as a light lunch or dinner, especially during warmer months. Additionally, it can be customized with other favorite vegetables or extra spices for varied flavor profiles. For those interested in more salad recipes, following collections or communities centered on #healthyrecipes, #salad, and #chicken can provide inspiration and support a nutritious lifestyle. Incorporating such easy, tasty recipes can contribute to consistent healthy eating habits without sacrificing flavor.
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