Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

This easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a delightful blend of flavors, featuring tender chicken, black beans, corn, and zesty Ro-tel tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, this dish brings a taste of the Southwest right to your table. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a meal that’s not only quick but also packed with nutrition and flavor, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Loaded with spices and fresh ingredients, every bite bursts with southwestern flavor.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup since everything cooks in a single skillet, saving you time on washing dishes.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and corn, it’s a wholesome meal option.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well and is perfect for both stovetop cooking and oven use.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient cutting of chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a sturdy surface for chopping and prepping ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Helps in accurately measuring spices for balanced flavor.

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!

Main 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)

Canned Goods

• 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)

Spices and Cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup Mexican cheese blend

Garnish

• Fresh cilantro (chopped – optional, to taste)

How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F 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, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook 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 per side until lightly golden.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan.

Step 4: Sauté Onions

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

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 6: Assemble Dish

Place chicken back into the skillet; spoon some of the tomato-bean-corn mixture on top of each piece. Sprinkle cheese over everything.

Step 7: Bake in Oven

Place the skillet in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (165°F) and cheese is melted. You can broil it for a few minutes at the end if you want it browned—just be careful not to burn it!

Step 8: Serve

Top with fresh chopped cilantro if desired, then serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet!

How to Serve Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

This Santa Fe chicken skillet is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in many ways to enhance your dining experience.

Tacos

• Use warm tortillas to create tacos filled with the Santa Fe chicken mixture. Top with fresh cilantro and avocado for extra flavor.

Rice Bowls

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Drizzle with lime juice for a refreshing touch.

Salad

• Create a hearty salad by placing the chicken and bean mixture on a bed of mixed greens, topped with your favorite dressing.

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with the Santa Fe chicken, cheese, and jalapeños, then bake until everything is melted and bubbly.

How to Perfect Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

To make your Santa Fe chicken skillet even better, consider these simple tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors significantly. Always choose ripe tomatoes and fresh cilantro when possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish as you cook. You can always add more spices or salt to suit your preferences.
• Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F for safety. Overcooking can lead to dry meat.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends for varied textures and flavors. Pepper jack adds a nice kick!
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

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 great options:

1. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.

2. Guacamole
   Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances out the spice from the skillet.

3. Refried Beans
   Smooth refried beans provide a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.

4. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies grilled until tender offer a smoky flavor that enhances the meal.

5. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread is a delightful addition that contrasts well with savory dishes.

6. Chips & Salsa
   Crispy tortilla chips served alongside fresh salsa provide a crunchy texture and vibrant taste.

7. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the skillet dish.

8. Cilantro Lime Rice
   This zesty rice is perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices from your chicken skillet!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, even small errors can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Bold seasoning: Not enough seasoning can make your dish bland. Always season your chicken and vegetables well before cooking.
• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the chicken can lead to a less flavorful dish. Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s golden before adding other ingredients.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Packing too many ingredients in your skillet can cause steaming instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if needed to ensure proper browning.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Adding cold ingredients to a hot skillet can reduce cooking efficiency. Allow refrigerated items to reach room temperature before cooking.
• Not scraping the pan: Forgetting to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan can result in missed flavors. Always deglaze your skillet for maximum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled down before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.

Reheating Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Santa Fe Chicken Skillet.

Can I use other proteins in this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef according to your preference.

How spicy is this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

The spice level can vary based on your chili powder choice. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and store them separately until ready to cook for maximum freshness.

What sides pair well with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

This dish goes well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal any night of the week!

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Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

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

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Description

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option? This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is your answer! Packed with tender chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and zesty Ro-tel tomatoes, it brings the vibrant flavors of the Southwest to your table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pan wonder not only saves time on cleanup but also delivers a nutritious meal that your family will love. With its customizable ingredients and bold spices, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion.

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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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cut chicken breasts lengthwise into thinner cutlets; season with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove from pan.
4. Sauté chopped onion in the same skillet until softened.
5. Add Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika; heat through while scraping up browned bits from the pan.
6. Return chicken to skillet; spoon the mixture over it and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake for 5-7 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 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: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg