This easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet recipe brings together vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients for a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delightful dish featuring black beans, corn, Ro-tel tomatoes, southwest spices, and gooey cheese. The versatility of this recipe makes it suitable for various occasions—from family dinners to potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of southwest spices, black beans, and melted cheese creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet—less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels or add extra veggies based on your preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge and reheats perfectly, allowing you to enjoy it again later.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet: Ideal for both stovetop and oven use; ensures even cooking and browning.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting chicken and vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate seasoning for the best flavor results.

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Ingredients

This easy Santa Fe chicken recipe is loaded with black beans, corn, Ro-tel tomatoes, southwest spices, and melty cheese. It’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients:
– 2 large chicken breasts
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt & pepper (to taste)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
– 1 (10 ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies (drained)
– 1 (14 ounce) can black beans (drained & rinsed)
– 1 (12 ounce) can corn (drained)
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 cup Mexican cheese blend
– Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional, to taste)

How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400F and move the rack to the middle position.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have 4 thinner cutlets.
2. Season both sides with garlic powder, chili powder, salt & pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Add olive oil to an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan.

Step 4: Sauté the Onion

Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and lightly browned.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat through for a couple of minutes while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Return Chicken to Skillet

Add the chicken back into the skillet. Spoon some of the tomato-bean-corn mixture onto each piece of chicken.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Sprinkle Mexican cheese blend over everything, concentrating on top of the chicken.

Step 8: Bake

Place skillet in preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F and cheese is melted. Optionally broil for a few minutes at the end for extra browning—watch closely!

Step 9: Serve

Top with fresh chopped cilantro if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful Santa Fe Chicken Skillet!

How to Serve Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Serving the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is as delightful as preparing it. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, adding a touch of creativity to your meal.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Protein-Packed Quinoa: Pair with quinoa for added protein and a nutty flavor.

In Tacos

• Soft Corn Tortillas: Fill warm corn tortillas with the chicken mixture for a tasty taco night.
• Crispy Taco Shells: Use crispy taco shells for extra crunch and texture.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Serve alongside a fresh salad of mixed greens topped with avocado and lime dressing for a refreshing balance.
• Pico de Gallo: Add fresh pico de gallo on the side for a zesty kick.

As Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create low-carb wraps filled with chicken, beans, and cheese.
• Flour Tortilla Wraps: Roll up the mixture in flour tortillas for an easy-to-eat option.

How to Perfect Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

To elevate your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, consider these simple yet effective tips that can enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to boost taste and nutritional value.
• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in spices and olive oil before cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the spice level to your preference by adding more chili powder or jalapeños.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar to suit your taste.
• Don’t Skip the Broil: Broiling at the end gives the cheese a beautiful golden crust that adds texture.

Best Side Dishes for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Pairing sides with your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Spanish Rice: A flavorful side dish cooked with tomatoes and spices, perfect for soaking up juices.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is great for dipping into the skillet sauce.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory flavors of the skillet dish.
5. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with chili and lime provide a delicious crunch.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
7. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices bring richness and are great on top of tacos or wraps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping or under-seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides generously to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking chicken: Cooking the chicken too long makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Not draining canned ingredients: Failing to drain black beans and corn can make your skillet watery. Always drain and rinse them before adding.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Neglecting fresh cilantro reduces freshness in flavor. Add it right before serving for a burst of brightness.
• Using non-oven-safe cookware: Using a non-oven-safe skillet may spoil your dish. Ensure your skillet is oven-proof before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of broth until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet:

What is a Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish made with chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and cheese, all cooked together in one pan.

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

The spiciness can vary depending on the chili powder you use. For milder options, choose sweet paprika instead.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all ingredients ahead and assemble them when ready to cook for an easy weeknight meal.

Final Thoughts

The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is not only quick and easy but also versatile! You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Print

Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Southwest with this quick and easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious one-pan meal that combines succulent chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and zesty Ro-tel tomatoes, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is not only flavorful but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether served over rice, tucked into tacos, or enjoyed as wraps, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a delightful addition to any dinner table. Plus, it makes great leftovers for future meals!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 (10 ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies (drained)
• 1 (14 ounce) can black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 1 (12 ounce) can corn (drained)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup Mexican cheese blend
• Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional, to taste)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove from skillet.
4. Sauté chopped onion in the same skillet until softened (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika; heat through.
6. Return chicken to skillet and spoon the vegetable mix on top.
7. Sprinkle with Mexican cheese blend and bake for 5-7 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and cheese is melted.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southwest

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken beforehand. Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or including jalapeños. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for a unique twist.