When it comes to weeknight dinners that deliver bold flavors with minimal fuss, few dishes can beat a classic Santa Fe Chicken. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of the American Southwest, this dish combines taco-seasoned chicken with hearty black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, all crowned with a gooey layer of melted cheese.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, Santa Fe Chicken checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, customizable, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s dive into the full recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish in just a few simple steps.
What is Santa Fe Chicken?
Santa Fe Chicken is a versatile dish that draws inspiration from the flavors and ingredients typical of Southwestern cuisine, particularly those associated with the Santa Fe region in New Mexico. It embodies the fusion of Native American, Mexican, and Spanish culinary influences, resulting in a comforting and exciting dish to the palate.
Santa Fe Chicken: The Basics of the Dish
Santa Fe Chicken draws inspiration from Tex-Mex flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite that works well for a variety of occasions. The main ingredients—tender chicken breasts, seasoned with bold taco seasoning, paired with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and green chiles—make this dish rich in flavor and texture. When topped with melty cheese, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
This recipe stands out because it’s versatile. It can be adapted to suit different dietary needs, ingredient preferences, and spice levels, making it perfect for families or guests with varied tastes. Whether served as a stand-alone dish or with a side of Mexican rice or tortillas, it’s a meal that promises to satisfy everyone at the table.
What You’ll Need for Santa Fe Chicken
Here’s a rundown of the ingredients that will come together to create your Santa Fe Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts: These are the main protein in the dish. You can substitute them with chicken thighs or tenders if desired.
- Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own for a more personalized flavor.
- Oil: To sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables.
- Onion & Garlic: These aromatics provide a depth of flavor and form the base of the veggie mixture.
- Black Beans: These beans add protein and texture to the dish, making it hearty and filling.
- Corn Kernels: Frozen corn works great here, but fresh or canned corn can also be used.
- Diced Tomatoes: These provide a juicy and tangy base for the dish.
- Green Chiles: For a mild kick and a bit of smokiness.
- Mexican Cheese Blend: The cheese ties everything together, melting beautifully on top of the chicken and veggies.
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!
How to Make Santa Fe Chicken
Now that you have everything you need, let’s walk through the simple steps to prepare this tasty Tex-Mex dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with taco seasoning. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, cover it, and set it aside while you cook the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Veggies
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the veggie mixture. If your chicken is thick, you can pop the skillet into the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to finish cooking. Otherwise, let it simmer on the stovetop for 6-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F or 74°C internal temperature).
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once the chicken is cooked, top each breast with shredded Mexican cheese. Place a lid on the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Pair it with your favorite side dishes like Mexican rice or tortilla chips for the perfect meal.
Tips and Variations for Santa Fe Chicken
This Santa Fe Chicken recipe is highly adaptable. Here are a few ideas for customizing the dish:
- Change the Protein: Swap the chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer dark meat. You can also use chicken tenders for a quicker cooking time.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to switch out the beans or add more veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach are great additions.
- Add Spice: If you like heat, you can toss in some diced jalapeños or chili flakes to give the dish a fiery kick.
- Make it Low-Carb: Skip the beans and corn if you’re following a low-carb diet. The chicken and cheese are delicious enough on their own!
- Cheese Variations: You can switch the Mexican blend for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
Key Notes
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Southwestern
- Keyword: Santa Fe Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving
What to Serve with Santa Fe Chicken
Santa Fe Chicken is already a complete meal, but if you’d like to serve it alongside some tasty sides, here are a few options:
- Mexican Rice: A classic pairing with Tex-Mex dishes, the fluffy rice will soak up the delicious juices from the chicken and veggies.
- Homemade Tortilla Chips: Crispy and salty, these chips make a perfect side for scooping up any extra sauce.
- Mexican Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw will balance out the richness of the dish.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken.
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macros
The nutritional content of Santa Fe Chicken will depend on the ingredients you use. On average, a serving of this dish will contain:
- Calories: 350-400 calories per serving
- Protein: 35-40g of protein (from the chicken)
- Carbs: 30g of carbohydrates (mostly from black beans and corn)
- Fat: 10-15g of fat (largely from olive oil and chicken)
Health Benefits of Santa Fe Chicken
- High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, helping to build muscle and keep you feeling full.
- Rich in Fiber: Black beans and corn add a healthy dose of fiber to the dish, promoting good digestion.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Bell peppers and cilantro are packed with vitamins A and C and antioxidants that support immune health.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken is a delicate protein, and overcooking can result in a dry, tough texture. Always ensure you cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, and let it rest before slicing.
Balancing the Spices
Southwest cuisine is known for bold flavors, but striking the right balance is important. Too much cumin or cayenne can overpower the dish. Start with moderate amounts of spices and adjust to taste.
Conclusion
Santa Fe Chicken is a delicious and simple dish that brings the best of Tex-Mex flavors to your kitchen. Whether you’re short on time or looking to feed a crowd, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. With its versatility and mouthwatering ingredients, Santa Fe Chicken will surely become a family favorite you’ll make again and again.
So go ahead, try this recipe, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as flavorful as it is easy to make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santa Fe Chicken spicy?
While this dish has a mild kick due to the taco seasoning and green chiles, it is not overly spicy. If you like it hotter, you can easily add jalapeños or chili flakes to increase the heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They stay juicier and cook a bit faster, making them a great alternative.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I make Santa Fe Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and veggie mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat the dish and add the cheese when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can make your own with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
