Santa Fe Chicken Skillet: A Flavorful Delight in 30 Minutes

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Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and vibrancy? The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey inspired by the rich and diverse traditions of Southwestern cuisine.

This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and zesty spices, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for entertaining guests.

Moreover, its simplicity is one of its greatest appeals. With easy preparation and minimal cleanup, this delicious chicken dish allows you to savor every bite without the stress.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet promises not only to delight your palate but also to bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. Enjoy this flavorful recipe, and let the flavors of Santa Fe inspire your next culinary adventure!

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Ingredients

To whip up a delightful Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Chicken breasts	2 large
Garlic powder	1/2 tsp
Chili powder	1/2 tsp
Salt & pepper	To taste
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Onion	1/2 medium	Chopped
Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies	1 (10 oz) can	Drained
Black beans	1 (14 oz) can	Drained & rinsed
Corn	1 (12 oz) can	Drained
Smoked paprika	1/2 tsp
Mexican cheese blend	1 cup
Fresh cilantro	To taste	Chopped, optional

This robust dish is not just quick to prepare but also bursts with flavor. As you cook, consider pairing your meal with a refreshing side like Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad.

The balanced taste will complement the spiciness of the chicken skillet beautifully. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is sure to impress both family and friends!

How to Prepare Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Season the chicken

Season 2 large chicken breasts with 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the seasoned chicken and cook each side for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.

Step 3: Sauté the onions

In the same skillet, add 1/2 medium chopped onion.
Sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add vegetables and spices

Stir in 1 (10 oz) can drained Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, 1 (14 oz) can drained & rinsed black beans, and 1 (12 oz) can drained corn.
Sprinkle 1/2 tsp smoked paprika over the mixture and mix well.
Let it simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.

Step 5: Chop and return chicken

Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Return the chicken to the skillet and mix it with the veggie mixture.

Step 6: Add cheese

Top the skillet with 1 cup Mexican cheese blend.
Allow the cheese to melt over the mixture.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro (optional) for a vibrant finish.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Once you try this recipe, explore other delicious options like one-pan harissa chicken with chickpeas for more satisfying meals!

Flavorful Variations

Discover exciting twists on the classic Santa Fe Chicken Skillet to keep your weeknight dinners fresh and lively. One scrumptious option is to add black beans and corn, giving it that quintessential southwestern flair.

For an even richer experience, consider incorporating diced avocados and fresh cilantro to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try the one-pan lemon garlic chicken and veggies for a zesty variant that perfectly complements the spices found in Santa Fe Chicken Skillet.

Alternatively, you can explore the delicious street corn chicken tacos for a fun handheld option perfect for gatherings. There’s also the honey butter skillet corn recipe that pairs beautifully with any chicken skillet meal, adding a touch of sweetness.

For more inspiration, check out this delightful Santa Fe Skillet Chicken recipe from Delish. These variations will elevate your cooking and keep your taste buds dancing!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, consider pairing it with flavorful sides that enhance its tasty profile. For instance, serve it with a side of honey butter skillet corn;

the sweet and buttery corn complements the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully. Additionally, you might enjoy rice or quinoa as a base, soaking up the delicious sauces.

For a fresh contrast, a light salad works wonders. Try a vibrant mixed greens salad dressed with zesty lime vinaigrette, which can brighten up the dish. Corn tortillas are another ideal companion.

You can warm them up and serve them on the side for a fun, interactive meal. Finally, adding toppings like avocado or fresh cilantro brings an extra pop of flavor and color, making your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet experience fully satisfying and enjoyable.

Nutritional Information

The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Typically, a serving contains around 350 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy meal option.

Rich in protein, chicken breast provides about 30 grams of protein per serving, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. This dish also includes a variety of vegetables, delivering valuable vitamins and minerals.

For those watching their carbohydrate intake, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet features approximately 15 grams of carbs, primarily from the colorful bell peppers and corn.

Additionally, it boasts a moderate fat content of about 10 grams, mainly from the cooking oil and any cheese added.

If you’re looking for another flavorful chicken recipe, try the One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Veggies. This dish complements the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet perfectly, offering a different twist on healthy cooking. Overall, this meal not only satisfies your craving but also supports a balanced diet.

Storage Tips

To properly store your delightful Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stovetop. For a complementary meal idea, try making Greek Sheet Pan Chicken, which also stores well and offers great flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal featuring seasoned chicken, vibrant bell peppers, corn, and spices. It offers a flavorful taste reminiscent of Southwestern cuisine, making it a family favorite. The simplicity of this dish allows for quick preparation, bringing a burst of color and flavor to your table in no time.

Can I substitute ingredients in Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

Absolutely! You can easily swap out ingredients based on availability or preference. For instance, try using beef or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein. Additionally, you can include veggies like zucchini or yellow squash to enhance its nutritional value.

How do I store leftovers of the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

To maintain freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be kept for up to four days, making it a convenient option for lunch or dinner later in the week. Simply reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Is Santa Fe Chicken Skillet healthy?

Yes, this dish can be quite healthy! It includes lean chicken breast and a variety of colorful vegetables that provide essential nutrients. For a lighter version, consider reducing the amount of oil used during cooking or serving it over a bed of greens.