If you're looking for a healthy and satisfying lunch option, look no further than Santa Fe Chicken Salad. This salad is the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and flavors, with only 990 calories per serving.
The ingredients in this salad include grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and tomato, all served over a bed of mixed greens. The dressing is a tangy cilantro-lime vinaigrette that ties everything together.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for enjoying this salad, as well as its nutritional value and health benefits.
Calorie Content
A serving of Santa Fe Chicken Salad (half) contains 990 calories. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, you can reduce the portion size or skip the avocado to lower the calorie count.
Ingredients
The ingredients in Santa Fe Chicken Salad include: - Grilled chicken - Cilantro-lime vinaigrette dressing
Preparation Time
The total time to prepare Santa Fe Chicken Salad is around 30 minutes, with 10 minutes of active preparation time. If you don't have time to grill chicken, you can use leftover cooked chicken or even canned chicken to save time.
Serving Size
The serving size of Santa Fe Chicken Salad is half the total amount, or approximately 2 cups of salad. If you want a larger portion or are serving multiple people, you can double the recipe and adjust the ingredients accordingly.
Nutritional Value
A serving of Santa Fe Chicken Salad provides the following nutrients: - Protein: 51 grams - Fiber: 15 grams
Serving Suggestions
Santa Fe Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are some serving suggestions: - Top with diced jalapenos for extra heat - Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch
Variations
There are several ways to add variety to Santa Fe Chicken Salad. Here are some ideas: - Swap out the grilled chicken for shrimp or tofu - Add diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist
Storage Tips
Santa Fe Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the avocado may brown over time, so it's best to wait to add it until right before serving.
Health Benefits
Santa Fe Chicken Salad is a healthy and nutritious meal option. Some of its health benefits include: - High protein content - High fiber content
Taste and Texture
Santa Fe Chicken Salad has a zesty and refreshing flavor, thanks to the tangy cilantro-lime vinaigrette dressing. The combination of grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy avocado creates a satisfying and filling meal.
Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring. Santa Fe Chicken Salad is proof of that!
5 FAQs About Santa Fe Chicken Salad
1. What is Santa Fe Chicken Salad?
Santa Fe Chicken Salad is a delicious salad that typically includes grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, red and green peppers, lettuce, and a creamy dressing. It is a popular dish in Southwestern cuisine.
2. How many calories are in a serving of Santa Fe Chicken Salad?
A half-serving of Santa Fe Chicken Salad contains 990 calories, making it a relatively high-calorie meal. If you are watching your calorie intake, you may want to split the salad with a friend or skip some of the higher-calorie ingredients, such as the creamy dressing or cheese.
3. Is Santa Fe Chicken Salad healthy?
Santa Fe Chicken Salad can be a healthy meal if you choose the right ingredients and portions. It provides a good source of protein from the chicken and beans, as well as fiber and vitamins from the vegetables. However, the high-calorie dressing and cheese can add up quickly, so it's important to be mindful of your portions.
4. Can I customize my Santa Fe Chicken Salad?
Yes, you can customize your Santa Fe Chicken Salad to suit your preferences. For example, you could add more vegetables like tomatoes or cucumbers, or swap out the dressing for a healthier option like vinaigrette. You could also reduce the portion size or skip some of the higher-calorie ingredients to make it more calorie-conscious.
5. Where can I order Santa Fe Chicken Salad?
Santa Fe Chicken Salad is a popular dish on many restaurant menus, especially those that serve Southwestern or Mexican cuisine. You can also make it at home using your favorite ingredients and dressing. Just be aware of the calorie count and portion size to ensure that it fits into your overall healthy eating plan.