Leftover Chicken Santa Fe Salad
Description:
This vibrant and flavorful Leftover Chicken Santa Fe Salad is an excellent way to utilize leftover chicken, corn, and assorted beans, making it a versatile dish perfect for lunch or snacks. Adapted from Woman’s Day magazine, this recipe swaps traditional ingredients for lower-fat alternatives, ensuring a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Feel free to customize the salad further by incorporating your favorite salad greens or using shredded red cabbage, carrots, and sliced radishes instead of pre-bagged options. Whether you choose chickpeas, kidney beans, or even shredded leftover pork or turkey, this salad is as adaptable as it is delicious.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/4 cup | Chunky salsa |
| 1/4 cup | Lime juice |
| 2 cans (15 oz) | Black beans, drained and rinsed |
| 2 cups | Corn, frozen or canned |
| 1 cup | Tortilla chips (about 1 cup, for topping) |
| 1 1/2 cups | Low-fat sour cream |
| 4 oz | Low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 4 cups | Salad greens (mixed) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 458.8 |
| Total Fat | 16.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 54.9 mg |
| Sodium | 426.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 50.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.7 g |
| Sugars | 4.7 g |
| Protein | 29.3 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the chunky salsa and lime juice. Whisk together until well blended, creating a zesty dressing that will enhance the flavor of your salad. -
-
Combine Ingredients:
Add the shredded leftover chicken, drained black beans, corn, and your choice of salad greens to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the mixture until everything is evenly coated in the dressing, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. -
Plate the Salad:
On four serving plates, create a small nest with about a handful of tortilla chips (approximately 1 cup per plate). Then, generously portion out the tossed salad over the tortilla chips, allowing the salad to spill over slightly for a visually appealing presentation. -
Garnish and Serve:
Top each serving with a dollop of low-fat sour cream. To finish, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded low-fat cheddar cheese over each salad, adding a delightful creaminess and additional flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful and nutritious meal!
This Leftover Chicken Santa Fe Salad not only utilizes leftover ingredients creatively but also provides a healthy and satisfying meal option. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious salad that is easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, catering to the busy schedules of everyday life.
