This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder! It’s packed with juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and tasty spices, all cooked together for a quick and delightful meal.
I love how everything cooks in one skillet—less cleanup means more time to enjoy! 🥳 Serve it over rice or tortillas, and you’ve got a super yummy dinner ready in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you’re short on time, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead. It will cook faster and still taste delicious!
Olive Oil: This helps in cooking the chicken and veggies. Feel free to use vegetable or avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor or have olive oil allergies.
Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices are essential for that warm, Southwestern flavor. If you want a bit more heat, add cayenne pepper or swap chili powder for a hot spice blend.
Beans: Black beans are my choice, but pinto beans or chickpeas can also work just as well. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can skip the beans altogether.
Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend adds creaminess and flavor. You can use whatever cheese you have on hand, like mozzarella or cheddar. Vegan cheese is a great substitute if you’re keeping it plant-based.
How Do I Cook Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s a simple way to keep it juicy. First, make sure your skillet is preheated and medium hot. This helps sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Season chicken well before cooking for added flavor.
- Cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side without crowding the pan. If it’s too crowded, the chicken may steam instead of sear.
- It’s okay to remove the chicken while it rests. This lets juices redistribute, making it tender when you slice it.
These tips can elevate your chicken game and make this dish even better.
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to enjoying your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Begin by preheating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil to the pan and let it warm up for a minute.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the skillet heats up, season the chicken breasts generously with ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the spices for the best flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and have a nice golden-brown color. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will add wonderful flavor to the dish.
5. Add the Veggies:
Next, stir in the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix everything together and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Nestle the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the veggie mixture. This way, the chicken will soak up all those yummy flavors.
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted beautifully.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, take the skillet off the heat then grab your fresh cilantro and sprinkle it on top for a lovely garnish. Serve this colorful and cheesy dish warm with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your homemade Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet! It’s a delightful, hearty meal perfect for any night of the week.
FAQ for Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first. You can do this safely by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even browning.
What Can I Substitute for Black Beans?
If black beans aren’t available, you can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas as alternatives. They will work just as well. If you prefer a lower-carb option, feel free to omit the beans entirely!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and the vegetable mixture ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and cook just before serving. It’s a great way to save time on busy evenings!
