Description
This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal loaded with juicy chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and zesty spices. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with protein and bold Southwestern flavors. Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or enjoy it on its own!
Ingredients
Units
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- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: Sliced jalapeños, avocado, sour cream, or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics – In the same skillet, add the onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Mixture – Return the chicken to the skillet. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
- Melt the Cheese – Remove the lid and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again for 2–3 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Finish with Fresh Flavors – Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve warm with rice, tortillas, or your favorite toppings!
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or using hot diced tomatoes.
- Protein Swap: Try this with shrimp, ground turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a richer texture.