This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder! It combines juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and tasty spices for a quick and hearty meal.
I love how everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze! Plus, it’s so good, you might just want to eat it straight from the skillet. Who’s judging? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay moist. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use turkey breasts instead!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but feel free to use avocado oil or vegetable oil if you like. Both work well for cooking at higher temperatures.
Onion: Diced onions provide a wonderful base flavor. Red onions can add a bit more sweetness if preferred, while green onions offer a fresh twist for garnishing.
Corn: You can use frozen corn for convenience, but fresh corn dramatically enhances taste, especially in summer! Canned corn is also an option, just make sure to rinse it well.
Black Beans: Black beans bring protein and fiber. If you’re open to substitution, pinto beans or chickpeas will also work, providing a different texture.
Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend is great for melting. Try Monterey Jack, or for a spicier kick, pepper jack works beautifully! Vegan cheese can also be a good alternative if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken well is vital for this dish. Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out juicy and golden:
- Preheat the skillet on medium-high heat, then add olive oil. It should shimmer but not smoke.
- Season the chicken evenly to enhance flavor. Don’t hesitate to rub the spices into the meat!
- Cook each chicken breast for about 5-6 minutes per side. You want them golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Remove the chicken to rest. This keeps the juices locked in. Don’t skip this step!
With these tips, your chicken will be delicious and the star of the skillet!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 20 minutes of cooking. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough so the chicken sizzles when you add it!
2. Season the Chicken:
While the skillet heats up, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This will add a lovely flavor base to your dish!
5. Add the Other Ingredients:
Next, stir in the corn, black beans, and drained diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and combined well.
6. Combine and Melt:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them among the veggies. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with plenty of chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color! Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet!
FAQ for Easy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a rich flavor to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through—about 7-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions. You can also sprinkle some hot sauce over the chicken before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and vegetables a day ahead. Just store them separate in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, follow the instructions from step 1, and it will be just as delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. Enjoy it with tortilla chips for a fun twist!
