Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

This easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a delicious and colorful dish that brings the flavors of the Southwest right to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients. With black beans, corn, Ro-tel tomatoes, and a blend of spices topped with melty cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a vibrant taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Great on its own or served with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults; you can customize the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans and corn.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and then transferring directly to the oven for cooking.
• Sharp knife: Ensures easy cutting through the chicken breasts for even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Helps accurately measure spices for consistent flavor in every batch.

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!

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Veggie Mixture

• 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

For Topping

• 1 cup Mexican cheese blend
• Fresh cilantro (chopped (optional, to taste))

How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F and move the rack to the middle position so that everything cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets.
2. Season both sides with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 4: Sauté Onions

1. Add chopped onion to the same skillet.
2. 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: Assemble in Skillet

1. Return chicken to the skillet.
2. Spoon some of the veggie mixture over each piece of chicken.
3. Sprinkle Mexican cheese blend generously over everything.

Step 7: Bake Chicken

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

Step 8: Serve

Top with freshly chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Serving your Santa Fe chicken skillet can elevate the dining experience. This dish is vibrant and flavorful, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal presentation.

With Tortillas

• Serve warm tortillas on the side for a delightful wrap option. Guests can fill them with the chicken mixture, creating a fun and interactive meal.

Over Rice

• Placing the chicken skillet mixture over a bed of fluffy rice adds heartiness to the dish. Consider using brown rice for added nutrition or cilantro lime rice for extra flavor.

With Avocado Slices

• Fresh avocado slices add creaminess and a touch of elegance. They complement the spices in the skillet beautifully and provide healthy fats.

Topped with Lime Wedges

• Offering lime wedges allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their servings, enhancing the flavors and adding a zesty kick.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs well with this dish. It provides a refreshing contrast to the warm skillet meal.

How to Perfect Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

To make your Santa Fe chicken skillet truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that will ensure great results every time you cook this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor. Fresh cilantro can brighten up the dish significantly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking chicken, ensure there’s enough space in the pan. This helps achieve an even golden sear on each cutlet.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding cumin or cayenne can give it an extra kick if desired.
• Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for optimal safety and juiciness.
• Broil for Extra Melty Cheese: For an irresistible cheesy topping, broil your skillet for a few minutes after baking. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

Best Side Dishes for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Santa Fe chicken skillet can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its bold flavors.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice adds sweetness and crunch.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lime dressing adds health benefits while balancing flavors.
3. Black Bean Tacos: These simple tacos filled with seasoned black beans provide an additional layer of texture and flavor that complements your main dish.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fragrant rice cooked with cilantro and lime juice enhances the southwestern theme of the meal while being easy to prepare.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions adds color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a fun appetizer or snack alongside your main course.
7. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers richness that’ll pair perfectly with all the bold flavors in your skillet dish.
8. Refried Beans: A classic choice that adds creaminess and heartiness to your meal; refried beans are always welcome on any Tex-Mex table!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season both sides well with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the chicken before baking can result in a less appealing texture. Take the time to sear it until golden for maximum flavor.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold ingredients straight from the fridge can cool down your skillet. Allow ingredients like cheese and beans to sit at room temperature for better melting and blending.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without overdoing it.
• Not scraping the pan: Ignoring the browned bits at the bottom of the skillet means missing out on extra flavor. Always scrape these bits while adding other ingredients.
• Rushing the broiling process: Broiling cheese without watching it closely can lead to burning. Keep an eye on it for a perfectly melted top!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this recipe that might help you out:

What is Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring chicken breasts cooked with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, spices, and melted cheese.

Can I customize my Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or swap out cheeses according to your preference for a unique twist.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing after cooking.

What side dishes pair well with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

This dish pairs nicely with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Can I make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients beforehand and cook them when ready or store leftovers for later meals.

Final Thoughts

The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is not only quick and easy but also packed with vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Give this dish a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

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

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Description

Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with this vibrant and nutritious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet! This one-pan dish brings the bold flavors of the Southwest right to your table in just 30 minutes. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection and then layered with colorful black beans, sweet corn, zesty Ro-tel tomatoes, and a blend of savory spices. Topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro, this easy recipe is not only packed with flavor but also provides a healthy dose of protein and fiber. It’s a family-friendly meal that can be customized to suit any palate, making it perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise; season both sides with spices.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear chicken until golden on both sides.
4. Sauté chopped onion in the same skillet until softened.
5. Add Ro-tel tomatoes, drained black beans, corn, and smoked paprika; stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the skillet; top with veggie mixture and cheese.
7. Bake for 5-7 minutes until the 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: 1/4 of the skillet (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 76mg