As the sun sets and the weeknight hustle looms, the kitchen transforms into my sanctuary. The rich, smoky aroma of spices begins to fill the air, transporting me straight to the heart of the Southwest. My latest creation, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, is a deliciously quick escape from the ordinary, ready to serve up on your dinner table in just 30 minutes! With tender chicken, hearty black beans, and sweet corn mingling with zesty Ro-tel tomatoes, this dish brings a burst of vibrant flavors and colors that are impossible to resist.
Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a cozy gathering, this easy recipe will impress even the pickiest of eaters and become a weeknight staple in no time. Grab your skillet, and let’s dive into a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both comforting and full of life!
Why You’ll Love This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Bold Flavors: The combination of smoky spices, zesty tomatoes, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s bound to please everyone at the table.
Family-Friendly: With its colorful ingredients and comforting taste, picky eaters won’t be able to resist!
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, making it not only delicious but also practical for everyday cooking.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and black beans, along with fiber-rich corn, this meal is both nutritious and indulgent.
Get ready for a satisfying meal that will make you and your loved ones fall in love with cooking at home!
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – The main protein; boneless skinless thighs can add even more flavor.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for searing; can swap with canola or vegetable oil if preferred.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic is a great substitute for a robust flavor.
• Chili Powder – Provides warmth and spice; adjust to your taste for heat level.
• Salt & Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; consider smoked salt for a richer taste.
For the Veggie Mixture
• Onion (chopped) – Sweetness and flavor base; choose red or yellow onion as you like.
• Ro-tel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies (drained) – Adds zest; swap with any canned diced tomatoes and add jalapeños for extra spice.
• Black Beans (drained & rinsed) – Offers fiber and protein; ensure to rinse for lower sodium.
• Corn (drained) – Gives sweetness and texture; feel free to use frozen corn for freshness.
• Smoked Paprika – Brings a smoky flavor; regular paprika can substitute but will lack smokiness.
For the Topping
• Mexican Cheese Blend – Melts beautifully for a creamy finish; cheddar or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives.
• Fresh Cilantro (optional) – Adds a fresh, herbaceous flair; replace with parsley if you prefer or omit altogether.
Dive into creating this delightful Santa Fe Chicken Skillet filled with vibrant ingredients that your family will love!
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the middle. This ensures perfect cooking for our flavorful dish!
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Slice the chicken breasts into four thinner cutlets. Sprinkle with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper to coat them generously for maximum flavor!
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Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside to keep it juicy.
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Sauté the chopped onion in the same skillet for about 5 minutes, until it becomes softened and has a lovely golden hue, enhancing the overall flavor base.
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Stir in the drained Ro-tel tomatoes, rinsed black beans, corn, and smoked paprika, allowing everything to heat for a couple of minutes while scraping the skillet’s bottom for those delicious browned bits.
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Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the vibrant vegetable mixture over it, and sprinkle the cheesy blend on top for that melty goodness.
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Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is beautifully melted. Optionally, broil briefly to achieve a golden-brown top.
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Top with chopped cilantro before serving immediately to add a fresh and herbaceous kick!
Optional: Serve with warm tortillas for a delightful touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Santa Fe chicken skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quicker results.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty touch upon reheating!
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with these fun and tasty twists!
- Refried Beans: Swap black beans for refried beans to create a creamier texture that enhances the dish’s richness.
- Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for a pop of color and a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and beans.
- Quinoa Twist: Use cooked quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious twist, giving you an extra protein boost and a lovely nutty flavor.
- Add Spice: Toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to ignite the heat levels, perfect for those who crave a little extra kick!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with hearty zucchini slices or mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
- Smoky BBQ: Incorporate a splash of BBQ sauce along with the Ro-tel tomatoes for a smoky, tangy surprise that the whole family will love.
- Herb Finale: Experiment with fresh herbs beyond cilantro, such as parsley or green onions, to perfectly suit your taste and brighten the flavors.
- Cheesy Variation: Mix in a different cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, for a unique twist and an exciting flavor profile that your taste buds will adore!
What to Serve with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?
Create a delightful meal that sings with southwest flavors, turning your dinner into a festive celebration!
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Warm Tortillas: Perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness, these fluffy tortillas complement the vibrant skillet beautifully.
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Spanish Rice: A bed of flavorful tomato-infused rice adds a lovely savory touch and is a classic pairing alongside this hearty dish.
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Cornbread Muffins: Their slight sweetness and crumbly texture create a wonderful contrast, elevating the comfort of your meal to new heights.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brighten the plate, offering a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy chicken.
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Guacamole: Creamy, velvety avocado goodness with lime and cilantro adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the southwestern experience.
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Chilled Margaritas: These refreshing drinks are a perfect match for the zesty flavors, providing a delightful way to celebrate the southwest spirit!
Embrace every moment of the dining experience—these pairings will surely make your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet shine!
Tips for the Best Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
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Sear Properly: Ensure the chicken is properly seared for maximum flavor. Avoid moving it around too much while cooking.
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Preheat Pan: If using a stainless steel pan, make sure to preheat it sufficiently. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking during the searing process.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Chili powder can vary greatly in heat; start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. Remember, you can always add more!
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Don’t Skip Rinsing: Always rinse canned black beans to reduce sodium and improve the dish’s overall flavor.
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Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and herbs, like cilantro, can brighten up the flavor profile of your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet.
Make Ahead Options
This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, and you can absolutely prep it in advance! You can chop the onions and measure out the spices up to 24 hours ahead. Additionally, consider marinating the chicken with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper for even more flavor, allowing it to rest in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the onion, add the remaining ingredients, return the marinated chicken to the skillet, then bake as directed. To maintain the quality of your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, always store prepped ingredients in airtight containers. Trust me, this make-ahead approach ensures a deliciously quick dinner that saves you time without sacrificing flavor!
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts. However, boneless skinless thighs can also be used as they tend to be juicier and can infuse even more flavor into the dish.
How should I store leftovers from the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let the skillet cool completely to maintain its freshness and flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat and dig in!
Can I freeze the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze the Santa Fe chicken skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To do this properly, let the dish cool down and then seal tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I do if the chicken isn’t cooking through?
If the chicken isn’t reaching the intended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), try slicing it into smaller pieces or cutlets, which will help it cook more quickly. Alternatively, make sure your oven is fully preheated, and if your pan isn’t oven-safe, consider transferring the skillet contents to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe is quite versatile and can be adapted for various dietary preferences. If you need it to be gluten-free, be sure to choose a gluten-free chili powder and check any canned ingredients. For a dairy-free option, simply swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative. As for pets, while this dish contains chicken, many other ingredients like onions can be harmful to dogs, so be cautious if sharing with furry friends!
What ingredients should I look for when selecting produce?
When selecting ingredients like onions or tomatoes, look for firm onions without dark spots and tomatoes that are vibrant and smooth. For canned ingredients, make sure they are well within their expiration date and check for any bulging or rusted cans, which can indicate spoilage.
Quick Santa Fe Chicken Skillet: Flavorful 30-Minute Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the middle.
- Slice the chicken breasts into four thinner cutlets. Sprinkle with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the chopped onion in the same skillet for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the drained Ro-tel tomatoes, rinsed black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Heat for a couple of minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the vegetable mixture over it, and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted.
- Top with chopped cilantro before serving.