Santa Fe Chicken

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Santa Fe Chicken is a tasty and fulfilling dish that comes together easily in one pan. This meal features tender chicken breasts seasoned perfectly with taco spices and is combined with colorful vegetables and delicious cheese. It’s a family favorite that captures the vibrant flavors of the Southwest, making it a wonderful choice for any dinner table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Santa Fe Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It requires minimal prep and cooks quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen. The one-pan method means fewer dishes to clean, and you can have a hearty meal ready in about 35 minutes.

Not only is it quick, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of chicken, beans, and fresh veggies offers a balanced meal that satisfies hunger. The use of taco seasoning adds a zesty twist that pleases the taste buds. Plus, plenty of cheese makes it creamy and indulgent without being heavy.

Lastly, Santa Fe Chicken is versatile. You can serve it with rice, tortillas, or your favorite sides, and it fits well with various diets. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for yourself, this dish will surely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

How to Make Santa Fe Chicken

Ingredients:

1-1 1/2 pound chicken breasts

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

2 tablespoons oil, divided

1/2 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup corn kernels

1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 (15 oz) can petite diced tomatoes

1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles

1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

Fresh cilantro, optional garnish

Directions:

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with taco seasoning.

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned and mostly cooked through. Remove from the pan, cover, and keep warm.

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, and diced green chiles. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the black bean mixture. Simmer for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).

Once the chicken is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

To serve, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy this delicious Santa Fe Chicken with rice, tortillas, or your favorite side dish!

How to Serve Santa Fe Chicken

Serve Santa Fe Chicken hot from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or warm tortillas. For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top. You can also offer additional toppings like sour cream, avocado, or salsa for everyone to customize their plate. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.