This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a colorful and tasty dish that brings the flavors of the Southwest right to your table. With juicy chicken, black beans, corn, and bell peppers, it’s a one-pan wonder!
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and delicious. I love topping it with cheese and avocado for an extra treat. Who doesn’t like a little cheese on their chicken? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Black Beans: These add protein and texture. If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans make excellent substitutes. Just rinse and drain them before using!
Corn: Use either fresh or frozen corn. You could replace it with canned corn if that’s all you have, but make sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Diced Tomatoes: The canned diced tomatoes give a rich flavor. If you like it spicier, you can use diced tomatoes with green chilies. Fresh tomatoes can work in a pinch, just chop them up and add some extra seasoning.
Cheeses: I love the combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for creaminess. You can substitute any melty cheese like pepper jack for a bit of heat, or even a dairy-free cheese option if you’re looking for lactose-free choices.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Getting juicy and perfectly cooked chicken is key. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Before adding the chicken, season it well with salt and pepper, which helps enhance the flavor.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until it’s browned and cooked through.
- A good tip is to use a meat thermometer; you want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C).
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the skillet. This way, it stays juicy!
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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 scrumptious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be ready to enjoy it in about 30 minutes! It’s a quick and filling dish perfect for a busy weeknight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with a little salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken to it. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the inside temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
2. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the drained black beans, corn, and undrained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder, then stir everything together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine those delicious flavors.
3. Combine and Melt the Cheese:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, right on top of the flavorful vegetable mixture. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Before you dive in, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of flavor and freshness. Serve your warm and tasty Santa Fe Chicken Skillet right away, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute the Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even try turkey breasts if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different cut, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or zucchini slices for a hearty vegetarian twist. You can also add extra beans or tofu for protein. Just sauté or grill them separately before adding to the skillet with the veggie mixture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the skillet over low heat until heated through, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese; pepper jack will add some spice, or you can use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option. Just keep the total amount of cheese about the same to maintain the dish’s creaminess!
