This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a colorful mix of chicken, beans, corn, and peppers topped with melted cheese. It’s a hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
I love how easy it is to whip up all these flavors in one skillet. Plus, if I have leftovers, they make for a tasty lunch the next day! Who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish, but you can also use thighs for a juicier option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using tofu or chickpeas instead!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin add warmth and depth to the flavor. If you want a little more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy chili powder. For a milder version, just a pinch of paprika will do.
Black Beans: If black beans are hard to find, pinto beans or kidney beans work well. You could even use lentils for a different twist! Rinsing the beans helps reduce sodium.
Cheese: The mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a great creamy finish. Feel free to substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a dairy-free cheese for a lighter option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, try using chopped green onions or parsley instead.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! You want it cooked through, juicy, and safe to eat. Start by seasoning evenly and then focus on cooking it slowly.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, then add the oil. This prevents sticking and helps brown the chicken.
- Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes; don’t rush it! Check for a golden brown color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a few mins. This keeps it juicy as the juices settle.
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Skillet Dish:
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (with green chiles if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy meal option that can be ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper on both sides of the chicken. Make sure they’re well coated with the spices to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken and place it on a plate.
3. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), add the drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors combine and warm the veggies up.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it into the vegetable mixture. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken and veggies.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the dish to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step gives the dish that delicious gooey cheese texture!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet with chopped cilantro. Serve hot, and enjoy this tasty, easy meal!
Can I Use Different Beans or Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans, depending on your taste. For vegetables, feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any veggies you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if needed for firmer vegetables.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when seasoning the chicken. You can also opt for hot diced tomatoes with green chiles instead of the regular kind to amp up the spice level!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the skillet over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up a bit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
You can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly if you’re using frozen instead of fresh chicken.
