After a long day, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where my go-to recipe, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, comes into play. It’s a vibrant, one-pan wonder that brings together tender chicken, colorful veggies, and zesty spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a game-changer for anyone who craves flavor without the fuss. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a taste explosion that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less time cleaning and more time enjoying your delicious creation. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering Santa Fe Chicken Skillet. Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: This is your cooking base, adding richness and helping to brown the chicken perfectly.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly and soak up all the flavors.
Chili powder: A must for that signature Southwestern kick, it brings warmth and depth to the dish.
Cumin: This earthy spice adds a unique flavor that complements the other spices beautifully.
Garlic powder: For a hint of savory goodness without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Onion powder: It enhances the overall flavor profile, giving a subtle sweetness.
Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and vibrant color to your skillet.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste for the best flavor.
Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned, it adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
Black beans: Packed with protein and fiber, they make the meal hearty and satisfying.
Diced tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they provide juiciness and a burst of flavor.
Bell peppers: Any color works! They add crunch and a pop of color to your skillet.
Shredded cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend melts beautifully, creating a creamy topping.
Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle on top adds freshness and a burst of flavor.
Lime wedges: Serve on the side for a zesty finish that brightens the dish.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a different protein, shrimp or tofu can be great substitutes. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Creating a Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as a skillet meal? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want that oil shimmering, not smoking. Once it’s hot, toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them generously with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. You’re looking for that golden color, which means it’s packed with flavor!
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Beans
Now it’s time to bring in the stars of the show: the veggies and beans! Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken is well mixed with the colorful ingredients. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and mingle with the spices. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Here comes the best part—cheese! Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of your chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. This step is crucial; it allows the cheese to melt beautifully without burning. In about 2-3 minutes, you’ll have a gooey, cheesy topping that makes this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet even more delightful.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted to perfection, remove the skillet from heat. It’s time to add a touch of freshness! Garnish your dish with chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor. Serve it up with lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to squeeze a little zest over their portion. Trust me, that lime juice elevates the dish to a whole new level!
Tips for Success
Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. It makes the process smoother.
Don’t rush the browning of the chicken; it adds depth to the flavor.
Feel free to customize the spice levels to suit your taste.
Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Leftovers? This dish reheats beautifully for lunch the next day!
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.
Measuring spoons: For accurate seasoning, though you can eyeball it if you’re confident.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
Variations
Spicy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a hearty plant-based meal.
Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a delightful seafood version.
Quinoa Addition: Stir in cooked quinoa for added protein and a nutty flavor.
Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for unique flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice complements the skillet perfectly.
Pair with a salad: A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast to the hearty dish.
Enjoy with tortillas: Warm tortillas are great for scooping up the delicious mixture.
Drink pairing: A cold beer or a refreshing margarita enhances the Southwestern flavors.
FAQs about Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Can I make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just heat everything up in the skillet and add the cheese. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
Is Santa Fe Chicken Skillet gluten-free?
Yes, this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any canned ingredients, like beans and tomatoes, are labeled gluten-free. It’s a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shrimp or tofu work wonderfully in this dish. Both options absorb the flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying meal. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking the chicken. You can also top it with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat it in the skillet or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Final Thoughts
The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and a reminder that cooking can be both simple and satisfying. Each bite bursts with the warmth of spices and the freshness of veggies, making it a dish that brings everyone together. Whether you’re sharing it with family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what really matters—enjoying good food and great company. Dive in and savor the joy of cooking!
A flavorful and hearty Santa Fe Chicken Skillet recipe that combines chicken, beans, corn, and spices for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the cheese to melt, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken while cooking.
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
