Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of smoky spices, juicy chicken, and a colorful mix of beans, corn, and tomatoes brings a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s not just delicious but also quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, the gooey melted cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch, making this a meal you'll want to make over and over again.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large chicken breasts

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ medium onion, chopped

• 1 (10-ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained

• 1 (14-ounce) can black beans, drained & rinsed

• 1 (12-ounce) can corn, drained

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 cup Mexican cheese blend

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, to taste)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and move the rack to the middle position.

2. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have 4 thinner cutlets. Season both sides with the garlic powder, chili powder, and salt & pepper.

3. Add the olive oil to an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the pan.

4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened and lightly browned.

5. Stir in the Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture heat through for a couple of minutes, making sure to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the tomato, bean, and corn mixture over the top of the chicken. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over everything, focusing on the chicken.

7. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted. You can broil the cheese for a few minutes at the end if you'd like it to be golden brown (just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn).

8. Top with freshly chopped cilantro, if using, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add extra beans, corn, or even sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.

• Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.

• Cheese: Use your favorite cheese blend. A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack would all work beautifully.

• Grain option: Serve this dish over rice or quinoa to turn it into a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. If using a skillet, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the dish moist.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They may take a little longer to cook through, so be sure to check their internal temperature.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you’re using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it first or cook it thoroughly in the pan before baking.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, follow the steps as usual.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce to the dish to increase the heat.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Yes, fresh corn can be used. Just cook it first, then add it to the skillet in place of the canned corn.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is naturally gluten-free, as long as you check that your spices and other ingredients do not contain gluten.

Can I make this recipe in a regular skillet instead of an oven-safe one?

Yes, you can use a regular skillet and then transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture to a baking dish to finish in the oven.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check with a meat thermometer to be sure.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you want a dairy-free version. The dish will still be delicious without it.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is an easy, flavorful, and filling meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With a mix of savory spices, tender chicken, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Whether you stick to the original recipe or customize it to your taste, you can’t go wrong with this delicious dish.