Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Recipe – Hearty, Healthy & Perfect for Weeknights

Introduction: What is a Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?

Looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner that brings the vibrant taste of the Southwest to your table? The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is your answer. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken breasts with bold Southwestern spices, fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, corn, and melted cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet recipe delivers on taste, convenience, and nutrition. Plus, it’s perfect for those who love Tex-Mex flavors without the hassle of complicated steps.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best Santa Fe Chicken Skillet, share expert tips, variations, and even how to store and reheat it. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

To make this hearty dish, you’ll need:

Protein:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Vegetables:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (diced)
1 red bell pepper (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 jalapeño (optional, seeded and finely chopped)
Canned Goods:
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup frozen corn kernels
Spices:
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Liquid:
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock
Toppings:
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Avocado slices or guacamole
Lime wedges
Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, garlic, and jalapeño.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes (with juice), chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Add black beans, corn, and chicken broth.
Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
Cover the skillet and let sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, lime, or sour cream before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a smoky depth that regular diced tomatoes can’t match.
Adjust the Heat Level: For a milder flavor, remove the jalapeño seeds or omit entirely. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier, while breasts are leaner. Either works well.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or coconut milk at the end for a creamy version.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the corn or use cauliflower rice as a base for fewer carbs.

Nutritional Benefits of Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:

High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and support muscle health.
Fiber-Rich: Black beans and vegetables offer dietary fiber for digestive wellness.
Vitamins & Minerals: Bell peppers, tomatoes, and corn provide vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
Healthy Fats: Optional avocado adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
A single serving contains approximately 350–400 calories , depending on portion size and toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over rice , quinoa , or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Pair with warm tortillas or cornbread for a comforting touch.
Make it part of a Southwest-themed dinner night with sides like roasted sweet potatoes or a simple green salad.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! Use 2–3 cups of drained canned chicken to save time. Add it toward the end to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially broth and spices) are certified gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free tortillas or rice if needed.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours.

Summary: Why You’ll Love This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Quick and easy one-pan meal
Packed with bold Southwestern flavor
Family-friendly and customizable
Great for meal prep or batch cooking
Adaptable to various diets (low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free)

Final Thoughts

The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a versatile, flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this recipe hits all the right notes—spicy, savory, cheesy, and satisfying.