Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
When life gets hectic, finding a meal that’s both quick and satisfying can feel like a treasure hunt. That’s where my Santa Fe Chicken Skillet comes in. This dish is a vibrant blend of flavors that not only pleases the palate but also brings a sense of warmth to the dinner table.
Imagine tender chicken, zesty spices, and colorful veggies all coming together in one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your culinary repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule.
It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Plus, the one-pan method means less cleanup, giving you more time to relax after dinner. What’s not to love?
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: This is your cooking base, adding richness and helping to brown the chicken.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly and soak up all the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Chili powder: This spice brings a warm kick, giving the dish its signature Santa Fe flair.
- Cumin: Earthy and aromatic, cumin adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic powder: A convenient way to infuse that beloved garlic flavor without the fuss of fresh cloves.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned, corn adds sweetness and texture to the skillet.
- Black beans: Rinsed and drained, they provide protein and a hearty element to the dish.
- Diced tomatoes: Whether fresh or canned, they add juiciness and a burst of color.
- Bell peppers: Any color works here! They contribute crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Onion: Diced onions bring a savory base flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: This melty topping ties everything together, adding creaminess and richness.
- Fresh cilantro: Optional, but it adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime at the end elevates the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Enjoy the process of gathering these ingredients, as each one plays a vital role in creating a meal that’s not just food, but a delightful experience!
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Cooking up a Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil shimmers, toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces.
Season them with salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and has a nice golden color.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet.
Sauté these colorful veggies for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
Stir in the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes.
Make sure to heat everything through for another 2-3 minutes.
This step is crucial as it allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the mixture.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
The cheese will melt into a gooey, delicious layer that ties the dish together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat.
If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for that zesty finish.
Your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is now ready to impress!
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 customize the spices to suit your taste—add more chili powder for heat!
- Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Let leftovers cool before storing them in an airtight container for up to three days.
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.
- Cutting board: Essential for chopping your veggies and chicken.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work quick and easy.
Variations
- Spicy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based meal.
- Southwestern Twist: Incorporate diced zucchini or squash for added veggies and flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a unique taste.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace black beans with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet with warm tortillas for a delightful wrap option.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- A cold beer or a zesty margarita complements the flavors beautifully.
- For presentation, sprinkle extra cilantro on top and serve in colorful bowls.
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 everything when you’re ready to eat. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep!
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shrimp or tofu work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
Is Santa Fe Chicken Skillet gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check the labels on your canned ingredients to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce while cooking. It’ll give your meal that extra kick!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
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 your home, making it a welcoming space for family and friends.
Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, reminding you that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this dish brings everyone together.
So grab your skillet, embrace the process, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a meal that’s both delicious and heartwarming!
Print
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet: A Flavorful Recipe to Try!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet recipe that combines chicken, beans, corn, and cheese for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 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 garlic powder
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 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 garlic powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken while cooking.
- Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
