This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder packed with juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and zesty spices! It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up on a busy night.
If you love dinners that need little clean-up, this dish is your friend! I often toss in extra veggies and cheese for that yummy touch—because who can resist a little extra cheese? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook quickly and evenly. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey cutlets or even tofu can work well for a meatless option.
Spices: The cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder really kick up the flavor. If you want to switch things up, use taco seasoning or even smoked paprika for a different taste profile.
Black Beans: These add great protein and texture. In a pinch, you can replace them with pinto beans or even chickpeas for a twist!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This ingredient provides a nice punch of flavor. You can use plain diced tomatoes and add some diced jalapeños if you want more heat.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack bring creaminess. Feel free to substitute with pepper jack if you prefer something spicier or use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking chicken in a skillet might seem tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve juicy, tender results. Here’s how:
- Start by heating the skillet over medium heat and adding olive oil. This will create a nice sear.
- Season the chicken breasts generously on both sides. Don’t be shy with the spices!
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid flipping it too often. Only turn when it has a nice golden-brown color.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) – this is the safest way to tell when it’s done.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the skillet. This keeps it juicy!
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Veggies & Cheese:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Santa Fe Chicken Skillet will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes seasoning and cooking the chicken, and then just a few more for combining and melting everything together. Simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. While the oil is warming, sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper onto the chicken breasts. Make sure they’re coated well for great flavor!
2. Brown the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Add the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to mix it all up and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes. This will combine the flavors beautifully!
4. Combine and Add Cheese:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon that delicious bean and corn mixture right over the top. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese generously over everything.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat a little. Let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and gets all bubbly and delicious!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this hearty dish!
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for the Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy throughout the cooking process. Just adjust cooking time to about 6-8 minutes per side, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies?
No problem! You can use plain diced tomatoes and add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a similar kick. Just make sure to keep an eye on the spice level if you prefer milder flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and the bean mixture ahead of time! Cook everything, let it cool, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through before serving with cheese on top.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, this dish also freezes well! Just make sure to cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the skillet until heated through.
