This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and tasty spices all come together for a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s super easy to clean up!
I love how this dish brightens up dinner time! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and you can feel good about all those veggies. Serve it with some warm tortillas for extra fun! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. You can also substitute with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Black Beans: These beans add protein and fiber. If you don’t have them, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. Canned beans are convenient, but dried beans, soaked and cooked, can enhance flavor and texture.
Corn: Canned corn is quick and easy, but you can use frozen corn or fresh corn cut from the cob during summer months for a sweeter taste. Just be sure to cook it a bit longer if you’re using fresh.
Diced Tomatoes: The can of diced tomatoes adds moisture and flavor, but if you prefer, fresh diced tomatoes can be used. Just be aware that you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to achieve the right consistency.
Cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend is perfect for this dish, melting beautifully. If you want a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheese, or for a dairy-free substitute, coconut cheese or cashew cheese will work.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken thoroughly while keeping it juicy can be tricky. Here are some steps to guide you:
- Start with evenly sized chicken breasts to ensure they cook at the same rate. If they’re uneven, consider pounding them to uniform thickness.
- Heat the oil in your skillet properly before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat and lock in moisture.
- Cook each side for 5-6 minutes but check with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes of cooking time. So, set aside about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Aromatics:
Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s nice and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it smells amazing!
2. Cook the Chicken:
While your onion and garlic are cooking up a storm, season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Once the onions are ready, add the chicken to your skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. Make sure they are no longer pink in the middle!
3. Mix in the Veggies:
Once your chicken is done, lower the heat to low. Now, it’s time to add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juice!). Stir everything together so it’s all combined and heated through.
4. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of your skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s that gooey goodness you’re waiting for!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Your hearty Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is ready to serve! Enjoy this flavorful dish with friends or family; it’s bound to be a hit!
Can I Substitute Another Protein for Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use turkey breasts or even firm tofu as alternatives. If using turkey, ensure it’s cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. If you opt for tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, then cube and sauté until golden before adding the other ingredients.
How to Make This Dish Spicy?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can adjust the amount depending on your heat preference!
Can I Make This in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of adding the cheese and then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, just reheat gently on the stove, add the cheese, and cover until melted.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in a microwave, ensuring it’s heated through before serving. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up!
