This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a colorful and hearty dish bursting with flavor! With juicy chicken, black beans, bell peppers, and zesty spices, it’s a meal that’s both filling and fun.
One of my favorite parts is that it all cooks in one skillet! Less mess means more time to enjoy dinner—or sneak bites while it’s still cooking! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the main protein in the dish. You can swap these for chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat or even use diced turkey for a leaner option.
Canned black beans: They add protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a different flavor, white beans or pinto beans can work too. Just make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
Canned corn: This brings sweetness and texture. Fresh or frozen corn can be substituted, adding a bit of crunch and freshness to the dish.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies: These add a nice kick! If you want less heat, use plain diced tomatoes instead and add a bit of chili powder.
Cheeses: I recommend cheddar and Monterey Jack for melting qualities and flavor. You could also use a Mexican cheese blend or even a dairy-free cheese for a lighter touch.
Taco seasoning: For a homemade version, just mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt. This way, you control the flavors and spice level.
How Do I Cook Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can ensure it’s juicy and flavorful. Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts well. This helps lock in moisture while cooking.
- Use medium-high heat and add olive oil to your skillet for a good sear. This creates a nice golden crust.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest off the heat for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Santa Fe Chicken Skillet takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful golden brown color. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the drained black beans, corn, and the can of diced tomatoes (make sure to add the juices, too!). Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, then stir everything together. Let this cook for about 2-3 minutes just to heat it all through.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the chicken back to the skillet. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts into the vegetable mixture, making sure to spoon some of the delicious mixture over each piece of chicken.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the chicken and the vegetables. This is where the magic happens—who doesn’t love melted cheese?
5. Let It Melt:
Cover the skillet with a lid and turn the heat down to low. Let everything cook together for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. Scoop it onto plates, and enjoy your delightful Santa Fe Chicken Skillet! It’s a one-pan wonder that’s both satisfying and simple!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead of Boneless?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time! If using bone-in chicken, you’ll want to cook it for about 10-15 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for the Black Beans?
If you don’t have black beans on hand, you can swap them with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to drain and rinse them as you would with black beans!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For added protein, you can include extra beans or tofu. Cook the vegetables until tender before adding the toppings in the final steps.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or sauté in a pan until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if the mixture seems dry.
