How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Santa Fe Chicken Salad?

You need 34 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 cups (475 ml) water, 3/4 cup (175 ml) soy sauce, 3 tbsp (45 ml) sugar, 2 tbsp (30 ml) salt, and more.

Is Santa Fe Chicken Salad suitable as salads?

Yes, Santa Fe Chicken Salad falls under the Salads category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Santa Fe Chicken Salad?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

Santa Fe Chicken Salad Recipe

Name: Santa Fe Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups (475 ml) water; 3/4 cup (175 ml) soy sauce; 3 tbsp (45 ml) sugar; 2 tbsp (30 ml) salt; 2 tbsp (30 ml) white vinegar; 1 tbsp (15 ml) cayenne pepper; 2 tsp (10 ml) liquid smoke; 2 tsp (10 ml) paprika; 2 tsp (10 ml) garlic powder; 1 tsp (5 ml) onion powder; 1 tsp (5 ml) black pepper; 4 chicken breasts, flattened; 1 cup (225 ml) mayonaise; 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped shallots; 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped tomatoes; 1 tbsp (15 ml) buttermilk; 1 tbsp (15 ml) white vinegar; 1 tbsp (15 ml) chopped cilantro/coriander; 1 tbsp (15 ml) chopped green chili; 3/4 tsp (4 ml) paprika; 1/2 tsp (2 ml) sugar; 1/4 tsp (1 ml) salt; pinch cayenne; pinch cumin; 1/2 iceberg lettuce, shredded; 2 little gems, chopped; 1 cup (225 ml) shredded red cabbage; 1 cup (225 ml) shredded cheddar; 1 cup (225 ml) shredded smoked mozzarella; Pico de Gallo

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Santa Fe Chicken Salad is a must-try. Made with water, soy sauce, sugar and salt. Easy step-by-step instructions …

This Santa Fe Chicken Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as (475 ml) water, (175 ml) soy sauce, (45 ml) sugar and (30 ml) salt. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 532 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It works as a light main on its own or as a starter alongside crusty bread, and it's just as good for a cozy night in as it is for feeding a crowd. Leftovers keep well, so it's a smart choice for meal prep too.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Salads

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

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Santa Fe Chicken Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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