Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in the kitchen, the rich aroma of spices mingling with sautéed peppers caught my attention—ah, the magic of a one-pan meal! Enter the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, an easy, quick-dinner solution that promises to make your weeknights a breeze. Packed with tender chicken, zesty spices, and fresh veggies, this delightful dish comes together in under 30 minutes, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for speed. Plus, it’s fully customizable! Whether you want it spicy or mild, add more veggies, or even swap in beans for a vegetarian twist, this skillet opens up a world of culinary creativity. Ready to uncover the secrets of this Southwestern favorite? Let’s dive in! Why is This Recipe a Must-Try? Quick Cooking: This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet transforms dinner time into a quick 30-minute affair, perfect for busy weeknights! Bold Flavors: Infused with Southwestern spices, every bite bursts with rich, zesty flavor that will take your taste buds on an adventure. Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer to make it vegetarian with beans or spice it up with jalapeños, this dish adapts to your preferences. One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup awaits you with just one pan needed for this hearty meal—more time to relax after dinner! Crowd-Pleasing Meal: It’s a versatile dish that satisfies family and friends alike, making it a staple in your recipe rotation. Related Inspiration: If you love quick dinners, try our Cheesy Garlic Chicken or the lively Garlic Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms for more fantastic flavors! Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Ingredients For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source, cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Olive Oil – Cooking fat that adds flavor and aids in sautéing without sticking. For the Seasoning Chili Powder – Spice for warmth and depth; adjust to taste based on your spice preference for the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet. Cumin – Earthy flavor enhancer; can be replaced with coriander for a different profile. Smoked Paprika – Brings a smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used if needed. Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic makes for a more robust flavor. Onion Powder – Offers a sweet, mellow onion taste; swap for fresh onions if you prefer. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors. For the Vegetables Medium Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness; can substitute with a sweet onion variety. Red Bell Pepper – Provides crunch and sweetness; feel free to use any color available. Orange Bell Pepper – Adds vibrant color and flavor; can be replaced with yellow or green bell pepper. For the Base Black Beans – Rich in creaminess and protein; replace with pinto beans if desired. Corn – Introduces sweetness and texture; use fresh or frozen for a can substitute. Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies – Provides acidity and spice; fresh tomatoes can be used for a fresher taste, but adjust liquid content as needed. Chicken Broth – Adds depth; opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Optional Additions Heavy Cream – For extra creaminess; Greek yogurt can replace for a lighter version. Fresh Cilantro – A garnish that adds freshness; use parsley if cilantro isn’t your favorite. Lime Juice – Brightens the dish; substitute with lemon juice if necessary. For Toppings Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully over the dish for a comforting finish. Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang; can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a healthier version. Guacamole – Creamy topping that complements the flavors wonderfully. Tortilla Chips or Warm Tortillas – Serve on the side, perfect for scooping or wrapping up this flavorful meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Step 1: Prepare Chicken Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10–15 minutes, letting those vibrant flavors soak in. Step 2: Sauté Vegetables While the chicken is marinating, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced medium yellow onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Then, mix in the black beans and corn, cooking until heated through—this should take roughly 3 minutes. Step 3: Cook Chicken Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be no longer pink in the center. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Once the chicken is cooked, add the sautéed vegetables back into the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 3–5 minutes. If desired, stir in heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce, letting it incorporate well and warm through. Step 5: Serve Taste the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet and adjust seasonings as needed. Once satisfied, serve hot right from the skillet, generously topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and guacamole. This dish can also be served with warm tortillas or over rice for a delightful, hearty meal! Make Ahead Options These Santa Fe Chicken Skillets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the cubed chicken in the olive oil and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy this quick dinner, simply sauté the marinated chicken until golden before adding the prepped vegetables and other ingredients. With these make ahead options, you’ll have delicious, time-saving results that will have you savoring a homemade meal in a snap! Expert Tips for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes. This enhances the flavor immensely, making it more succulent in the final dish. Check Chicken Temperature: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Under-cooked chicken can be unsafe to eat. Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the chili powder based on your taste preferences—it’s best to start with less if serving to children to avoid overwhelming them. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions. They will add brightness and crunch to your Santa Fe Chicken Skillet. One-Pan Efficiency: To save on dishwashing time, use the same skillet throughout. Just push the veggies to the side when cooking the chicken to keep flavor in one place. Perfect for Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. This dish reheats beautifully, making for a quick lunch or dinner option! Storage Tips for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and keeps the dish fresh. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry to bring back moisture. Serving: Enjoy reheated as is, or serve over rice or tortillas for an easy, satisfying meal anytime! What to Serve with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this wholesome dish. Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and zesty, this rice dish adds a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the skillet. Creamy Avocado Salad: The smooth, creamy texture of ripe avocados marries beautifully with the zesty spices, adding a cool contrast. Warm Tortillas: Soft and fluffy, tortillas serve as the perfect vehicle for scooping up all that delicious chicken and veggies, enhancing your meal’s enjoyment. Spicy Black Bean Soup: This hearty soup echoes the flavors in your skillet while providing warmth and a welcomed spice kick, making for a comforting pairing. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, charred corn adds a fun, textural element that elevates your meal to summer BBQ vibes, all year round. Margaritas or Lemonade: A refreshing drink can cut through the flavors of the chicken skillet. The citrus brightness of a margarita or lemonade will enhance your overall dining experience! Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Variations Feel free to get creative with this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet—there’s so much room for personalization and yumminess! Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with black beans or tofu for a satisfying plant-based option. This hearty substitution provides protein while keeping the flavors lively. Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. It’s a great way to wake up your taste buds and bring a sizzling fiesta vibe to your dinner! Bell Pepper Boats: Instead of serving on a plate, scoop the mixture into halved bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender. This creative twist not only looks gorgeous but also adds a fun, healthy element to the dish. Creamy Upgrade: For extra richness, stir in some cream cheese or sour cream towards the end of cooking. This adds a dreamy texture to the skillet, making it even more indulgent! Grains Galore: Serve your Santa Fe Chicken over quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and a filling meal. Mixing in grains gives the dish a delightful heartiness. Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an aromatic boost. Fresh herbs can transform the flavors, adding brightness and freshness to each bite. Cheese Lovers: Change up the cheese by using pepper jack for extra flavor or a mix of cheeses for a unique touch. Melting a variety of cheeses creates a deliciously gooey topping that everyone will love. Sweet Addition: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness and an exciting contrast with the savory spices. This tropical twist can bring a whole new dimension to your culinary creation. If you’re hungry for more delicious options, check out our delightful Bbq Chicken Mac or treat your taste buds to some zesty Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use for the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. How should I store leftovers of the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet? Store any leftover Santa Fe Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled before sealing the container to maintain its freshness. You can simply reheat it on the stovetop for the best texture. Can I freeze the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet for later use? Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the fully cooked Santa Fe Chicken Skillet to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth when reheating will help restore moisture. What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly? If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it may be due to pieces being cut unevenly. Ensure all chicken cubes are roughly the same size for uniform cooking. If some pieces are cooking faster than others, you can push the cooked pieces to the side of the skillet while keeping the others over the heat until done. Are there any common allergens in the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet? Yes, this recipe includes chicken, beans, and dairy ingredients like cheese and sour cream, which can be common allergens. If any of these pose a concern, opt for dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut yogurt or nutritional yeast for cheesiness. Also, ensure that your ingredients are gluten-free if that is a dietary need. How can I make the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet vegetarian? To turn the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet into a vegetarian dish, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of black beans and corn. You can also incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Just adjust the spices to your liking! Santa Fe Chicken Skillet: A Quick Flavor Burst for Dinner This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a quick, one-pan dinner bursting with Southwestern flavors, ready in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: SouthwesternCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into 1-inch cubes2 tablespoons Olive OilFor the Seasoning2 tablespoons Chili Powder adjust to taste1 teaspoon Cumin1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika or regular paprika1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh garlic1 teaspoon Onion Powder or fresh onionsto taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Vegetables1 medium Yellow Onion1 medium Red Bell Pepper1 medium Orange Bell PepperFor the Base1 can Black Beans or pinto beans1 cup Corn fresh or frozen1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies1 cup Chicken Broth or vegetable brothOptional Additions1/2 cup Heavy Cream or Greek yogurtto taste Fresh Cilantro or parsley1 tablespoon Lime Juice or lemon juiceFor Toppings1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese1/2 cup Sour Cream or Greek yogurt1/2 cup Guacamoleto serve Tortilla Chips or Warm Tortillas Equipment Large Skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Santa Fe Chicken SkilletPrepare chicken by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, combine chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and marinate for 10–15 minutes.Sauté vegetables by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding a splash of olive oil. Once shimmering, add diced yellow onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Mix in black beans and corn and cook until heated through, about 3 minutes.Cook chicken by pushing the sautéed vegetables to the side and adding marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).Combine ingredients by adding sautéed vegetables back into the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer for 3–5 minutes. If desired, stir in heavy cream for creaminess.Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. Enjoy with warm tortillas or over rice. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg NotesAllow chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes for enhanced flavor. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
