Santa Fe Chicken Skillet – Easy and Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, savory, and filling dinner that packs a punch of southwestern flavor, look no further than the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet. This dish features tender chicken breasts paired with the perfect blend of black beans, corn, and melted cheese, all seasoned with smoky, zesty southwest spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying—making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is the perfect combination of quick, healthy, and family-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or need a simple meal after a long day, this recipe offers the bold flavors of the southwest without overwhelming complexity. The use of everyday ingredients like chicken, black beans, corn, and tomatoes makes this dish accessible and comforting. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, meaning cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

For this delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that bring big flavor:

• Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced for quicker, more even cooking.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory base flavor to the chicken.
• Chili Powder: Brings a mild heat and earthy depth.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Olive Oil: Used for pan-frying the chicken and sautéing the onion.
• Onion: Sweet onion adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
• Ro-tel Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Provides a spicy kick and tangy base.
• Black Beans: Adds protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
• Corn: Offers a touch of sweetness and color.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor to balance the spices.
• Mexican Cheese Blend: For melty, gooey goodness.
• Fresh Cilantro (optional): Adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

For a lighter version of this dish, you can swap the chicken breasts with turkey breasts or chicken thighs. If you’re avoiding cheese, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Additionally, you can make the recipe spicier by swapping out the Ro-tel for the hot version or adding chopped jalapeños to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes or until softened and lightly browned.
5. Add the Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Allow the mixture to heat through for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Add the Chicken Back In: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the tomato mixture over the chicken. Sprinkle the cheese over the top.
7. Bake: Place the skillet in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese has melted. If you want the cheese to be extra browned, you can broil for a few minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top and serve hot.

Tips & Tricks

• Prevent Sticking: If the chicken sticks while pan-frying, let it cook a little longer until it naturally releases from the pan.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internally).
• Customize the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, opt for mild Ro-tel or skip the chili powder entirely.
• Leftovers: Store leftover Santa Fe Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to maintain flavor and texture.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is delicious on its own, you can elevate the meal with side dishes or variations:

• Side Dishes: Serve the skillet with a side of rice, a light salad like Avocado Corn Salad, or a crunchy slaw to balance the richness.
• Taco Version: For a fun twist, cut the chicken into strips and serve in soft tortillas with sour cream, shredded lettuce, and salsa for a quick taco dinner.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by cooking the chicken and the tomato mixture separately. Store them in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your seasoning mix and any added products (like cheese) are certified gluten-free.

Healthy, Flavorful, and Easy

Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is more than just a tasty meal; it’s a celebration of bold, southwestern flavors in one easy-to-make dish. With its blend of spices, tender chicken, and hearty beans and corn, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight, family dinner, or meal prep. Add a few fresh toppings, and you have a complete and satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet offers an easy, quick, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken, hearty beans, sweet corn, and a perfect balance of southwest spices, this dish delivers bold flavors in every bite. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder, so clean-up is a breeze! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing for meal prep, this recipe provides a satisfying and nutritious option that everyone will love. Don’t forget to top it off with fresh cilantro for that extra burst of freshness. Give this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet a try tonight, and enjoy a delicious dinner that’s sure to impress.

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken: This recipe is a perfect match for those who love bold flavors and a creamy texture. With tender chicken, zesty seasonings, and a touch of creaminess, it’s a satisfying, hands-off option that pairs well with rice or tortillas, similar to the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet.
• Taco Soup with Chicken: This hearty soup brings together all the familiar flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine—chicken, beans, corn, and a spicy kick. Like the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, it offers a comforting, filling meal with the essence of southwestern spices in every bite.
• One-Pan Balsamic Chicken & Veggies: If you enjoy a one-pan dish like the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, this balsamic chicken with roasted vegetables is a great alternative. The tangy balsamic glaze complements the tender chicken and vegetables, creating a simple yet flavorful meal in no time.

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