Santa Fe Chicken


Advertisement


Advertisement

This Santa Fe Chicken dish brings vibrant Southwest flavors to your table in a simple one-pan meal. Tender, spiced chicken breasts are nestled in a hearty mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and green chiles, all topped with melted Colby Jack cheese and a bright squeeze of lime.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken

IngredientQuantity
Smoked paprika1 teaspoon
Garlic powder1 teaspoon
Onion powder1/2 teaspoon
Chili powder1 teaspoon
Cumin1/2 teaspoon
Salt1 teaspoon
Black pepper1/2 teaspoon
Large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise2 (about 1/2 inch thick)
Olive oil, divided3 tablespoons

For the Skillet Mixture & Toppings

IngredientQuantity
Onion, diced1 cup
Garlic, minced5 cloves
Black beans, drained1 (15 ounce) Can
Green chiles1 (4.5 ounce) Can
Diced tomatoes1 (15 ounce) Can
Fresh or frozen corn1 1/2 cups
Colby Jack cheese, shredded2 cups
Lime juice2 tablespoons
Cilantro, choppedFor garnish

Instructions:

  • Prepare Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  • Season Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise to about 1/2 inch thick) on a cutting board. Generously coat both sides of the chicken with the prepared spice mixture.
  • Sear Chicken: Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for 3-5 minutes per side, until browned. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point. Remove the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired softness. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add Vegetables: Stir in the drained black beans, green chiles, diced tomatoes, and fresh or frozen corn. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through.
  • Simmer & Melt Cheese: Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Divide the shredded Colby Jack cheeseevenly on top of each chicken breast. Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Finish & Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juicegenerously over the top of the chicken and vegetables. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Leave a Comment