When I think of weeknight dinners, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet always comes to mind.
It’s a dish that brings together vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients, all in one pan.
Perfect for those busy evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying, this recipe is a lifesaver.
With tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s a meal that impresses without the fuss.
Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this skillet wonder is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a game-changer for busy nights.
It’s not just quick to whip up; it’s packed with flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.
In just 30 minutes, you can serve a wholesome meal that satisfies everyone at the table.
Plus, the one-pan aspect means less cleanup, leaving you more time to relax.
Trust me, this dish will quickly become your go-to for easy, delicious dinners!
Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Creating a delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet starts with gathering the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: A staple for sautéing, it adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the chicken and veggies.
Chili powder: This spice brings a warm kick, giving the dish its signature Southwestern flair.
Cumin: Earthy and aromatic, cumin adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
Paprika: A touch of sweetness and color, paprika rounds out the spice blend.
Onion: Diced onions provide a savory base, adding sweetness as they cook down.
Bell peppers: Any color works! They add crunch and a pop of color to the skillet.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma and robust flavor.
Black beans: Packed with protein and fiber, they make the dish hearty and filling.
Corn: Sweet corn adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture.
Diced tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they bring juiciness and acidity to balance the dish.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty cheese on top is the ultimate comfort food finish.
Fresh cilantro: Optional, but it adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime at serving time elevates the flavors and adds zest.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
If you prefer a different protein, cooked ground turkey or beef can be great substitutes.
Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Making a Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as a one-pan wonder!
Let’s dive into the steps that will have your kitchen smelling amazing in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces.
Season them with salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
This step is crucial; it locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a nice sear.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Next, add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet.
Sauté these colorful veggies for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
The aroma will be irresistible!
This is where the dish starts to come alive, adding both flavor and texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Garlic
Now, it’s time to bring in the garlic.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen fills with that fragrant, garlicky goodness.
Don’t let it burn; burnt garlic can ruin the dish!
Step 4: Mix in Beans and Corn
Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet.
Stir everything together, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes.
This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
You’ll see the vibrant colors come together, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
This will melt the cheese perfectly, creating a gooey, comforting layer.
The sight of melted cheese is always a win in my book!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat.
If you’re using cilantro, sprinkle it on top for a fresh touch.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for that zesty kick.
This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is now ready to be devoured!
Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfaction of a meal made with love.
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste; more chili powder for heat!
Use a lid to trap steam when melting cheese for a gooey finish.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days—perfect for lunch!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps in stirring and serving.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping your ingredients.
Measuring cups: Handy for portioning out ingredients, especially if you’re new to cooking.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for extra beans or tofu for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Different Proteins: Use cooked shrimp or diced pork for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Grain Boost: Serve over quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and a filling meal.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a flavor change.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the skillet perfectly.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Refreshing Drinks: Pair with a cold beer or a citrusy margarita for a festive touch.
Presentation: Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant look.
FAQs about Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Can I make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook it when you’re ready for a quick meal. Leftovers also keep well for up to three days!
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, cooked ground turkey or beef works great. For a vegetarian option, try using extra beans or tofu. Both will still give you that hearty feel!
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Adjust the chili powder to your liking for an extra layer of heat!
Is Santa Fe Chicken Skillet gluten-free?
Yes! This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions. Just double-check your ingredient labels to be sure.
What sides pair well with this dish?
A fresh side salad or some fluffy rice or quinoa complements the flavors beautifully. You could also enjoy it with a cold beer or a citrusy margarita for a complete meal experience!
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen.
The vibrant colors and enticing aromas fill the air, making it hard not to smile.
This dish is a celebration of flavors, bringing together the warmth of spices and the comfort of melted cheese.
Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, it’s a reminder that good food can elevate any day.
So grab your skillet and let this one-pan wonder bring a little happiness to your table!
A flavorful one-pan dish featuring chicken, beans, corn, and cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, if using. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
For added heat, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
You can substitute the chicken with cooked ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.
