Santa Fe Chicken
In my kitchen, this Santa Fe Chicken dish has become a family favorite for its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. With tender chicken topped with gooey cheese, corn, and black beans, it’s a delightful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Not only does it look pretty on the plate, but it also fills the house with a mouthwatering aroma, making it hard to resist. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to make this at home!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are so many reasons to whip up Santa Fe Chicken. First, it’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option. The combination of ingredients brings a taste of the Southwest right to your table, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for a meal that checks all the boxes delicious, satisfying, and easy to clean up this recipe is for you!
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken
Let’s break down how to make this flavorful dish! You’ll start by searing the chicken, which enhances its juiciness and flavor. After that, you’ll layer on fresh ingredients for a colorful, hearty meal that bakes up beautifully.
What You’ll Need
- Chicken breasts
- Mexican blend cheese
- Corn (canned or frozen)
- Black beans (canned)
- Seasoning (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your desired seasonings for that extra punch of flavor.
- Sear the chicken in the skillet until it’s browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish once it’s golden and crisp.
- Layer the corn and black beans over the chicken for a colorful topping.
- Generously sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Santa Fe Chicken is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over a bed of rice for a heartier meal, or alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option. It can even be stuffed inside tortillas for a tasty wrap or served with tortilla chips for a fun twist!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your Santa Fe Chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you’re looking to save some for later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months just make sure to use a freezer-safe container!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For an easy clean-up, line your baking dish with parchment paper.
- You can adapt the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
- If using frozen corn or beans, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the dish.
Creative Twists
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Swap out the Mexican blend cheese for a sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a kick. To lighten it up, you can use chicken thighs or even grilled vegetables if you’re aiming for a vegetarian version.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 350 | 30g | 32g | 12g | 5g | 3g |
Cooking should always be an enjoyable experience, and Santa Fe Chicken brings a fun, vibrant flair to your dinner routine. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do!
