Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
There’s something about a hearty dish like Santa Fe Chicken Skillet that instantly makes you feel at home. I remember the first time I made it; the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma wafting through the kitchen transported me right to the lively streets of Santa Fe. This dish bursts with flavors of fresh ingredients, spices, and that comforting essence of home-cooked meals. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this skillet meal never fails to impress. You can really taste the care and creativity in every bite. It’s like a warm hug from the inside, and it’s perfect for those busy nights when you still want to indulge in something delicious.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
450 kcal
35 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Blender, Oven
What You’ll Enjoy About This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Flavor Explosion
What I love most about Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is the incredible medley of flavors. The tanginess from the diced tomatoes and the earthy notes of black beans combine beautifully with the spiciness of chili powder. Each ingredient complements the others, creating a symphony of taste that you won’t forget.
Ease of Preparation
This dish shines not only in flavor but also in its simplicity. I can whip up Santa Fe Chicken Skillet in just a matter of minutes, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights. You just toss everything together in one skillet, and before you know it, dinner is served!
Healthy Ingredients
Packed with nutritious ingredients like chicken, black beans, and corn, this meal is both satisfying and wholesome. The added cilantro gives it a fresh finish, making it a guilt-free pleasure that I feel great about serving my family.
Customizable
Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the spice levels, add more veggies, or even replace the chicken with your preferred protein. It’s a canvas for creativity, and I can always adapt it to fit my mood or dietary needs.
One-Pan Wonder
Cleaning after cooking can be a hassle, but with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, that’s not an issue. Since it’s made in just one pan, I have less mess to deal with, which is a huge plus for me. It allows me to enjoy the meal and the company of my loved ones without worrying about the cleanup.
Perfect for Gatherings
This dish is always a hit at gatherings! The beautiful presentation and vibrant colors make it visually appealing, and the flavors keep everyone coming back for seconds. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks conversations and brings people together.
Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
The ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet are as vibrant as the dish itself. Each component brings something special to the table. From the hearty chicken to the zesty Ro-tel tomatoes, there’s a balance of flavors that truly shines through. Let’s take a closer look at these key players that come together to create something extraordinary.
- 2 large chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a juicy and protein-packed base.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth of flavor with a wonderful aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Imparts a mild heat that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps in cooking and adds richness.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Provides a savory sweetness when sautéed.
- 1 (10 ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained: Brings a delightful tang and spiciness.
- 1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained & rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber.
- 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained: Sweetens the dish and adds a pop of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a smoky richness to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup Mexican cheese blend: Melts beautifully on top, creating a deliciously gooey layer.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, to taste): Adds freshness and a burst of color on top.
Instructions for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Making Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a straightforward process that anyone can master! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be on your way to a flavorful meal in no time. Just remember to take your time and enjoy the cooking experience!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the rack to the middle position. A well-preheated oven is key for perfectly cooked chicken and melting cheese.
- Next, cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, creating four thinner cutlets. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken cutlets. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even cooking. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Now it’s time to add the chopped onion to the same skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion is softened and slightly browned. This process develops a sweeter flavor.
- Next, stir in the Ro-tel diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Allow the mixture to heat through for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as you go. These bits enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Once everything is well mixed and heated, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon some of the tomato-bean-corn mixture onto the cutlets, ensuring they’re well-coated. This step ensures each bite is full of flavor!
- Sprinkle the Mexican cheese blend generously over the entire skillet. Focus on the tops of the chicken for that melty goodness. You can save a little cheese for later if you’d like to add some after baking.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a golden crust, you can broil it for an additional couple of minutes; just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Finally, once out of the oven, finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro if you desire. This adds a vibrant touch and a fresh flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Method: Using an oven-safe skillet is crucial for this recipe, ensuring that all cooking happens in one pan without transferring ingredients.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Ingredient Quality: Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken and fresh produce whenever possible.
- Layering Flavors: Don’t skip scraping the bottom of the pan during cooking; those browned bits add depth to the dish.
Recipe Tips about Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
When it comes to perfecting your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, there are a few tips to keep in mind. These will help you elevate your dish and ensure it turns out just right every time!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for later enjoyment! Just ensure it’s cooled down completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: Consider serving it with a side of rice or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
- Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, feel free to add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix!
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
- Meal Prep: This skillet meal is perfect for meal prep! Make a batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.
What to Serve Alongside Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Pairing side dishes with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Rice: A fluffy side of white or brown rice provides a great base for the flavorful skillet.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with a zesty dressing will complement the robust flavors of the skillet.
- Tortillas: Serve with warm corn or flour tortillas for a fun, hand-held way to enjoy the meal.
- Avocado: Sliced avocado or guacamole adds a creamy texture that balances the dish.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables are a perfect addition, adding both color and nutrients.
- Chips and Salsa: Start your meal with some tortilla chips and salsa for a crunchy appetizer.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is truly a standout dish that combines bold flavors with easy preparation. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and can be enjoyed in so many different ways. I encourage you to try making it, and I promise it will become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful meal and the smiles it brings!
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Frying Pan
- Skillet
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Blender
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- to taste salt & pepper
- 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
- to taste Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the rack to the middle position. A well-preheated oven is key for perfectly cooked chicken and melting cheese.
- Next, cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, creating four thinner cutlets. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken cutlets. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even cooking. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Now it’s time to add the chopped onion to the same skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion is softened and slightly browned. This process develops a sweeter flavor.
- Next, stir in the Ro-tel diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Allow the mixture to heat through for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as you go. These bits enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Once everything is well mixed and heated, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon some of the tomato-bean-corn mixture onto the cutlets, ensuring they’re well-coated. This step ensures each bite is full of flavor!
- Sprinkle the Mexican cheese blend generously over the entire skillet. Focus on the tops of the chicken for that melty goodness. You can save a little cheese for later if you'd like to add some after baking.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a golden crust, you can broil it for an additional couple of minutes; just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Finally, once out of the oven, finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro if you desire. This adds a vibrant touch and a fresh flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet!
Notes
- Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Tip 2: This dish can be frozen for later enjoyment! Just ensure it’s cooled down completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Tip 3: Consider serving it with a side of rice or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
- Tip 4: If you prefer more heat, feel free to add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix!
- Tip 5: Substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
- Tip 6: This skillet meal is perfect for meal prep! Make a batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.
