Santa Fe Chicken is a flavorful, hearty dish inspired by the vibrant cuisine of the Southwestern United States. This dish combines tender grilled chicken with a medley of fresh ingredients like corn, black beans, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all seasoned with smoky spices like cumin and chili powder. Topped with melted cheese and served with a drizzle of sour cream or avocado, it’s a perfect combination of savory, spicy, and fresh flavors. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a part of a festive meal, Santa Fe Chicken is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Santa Fe Chicken is a one-pan, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. The grilled chicken takes on the smoky, spicy flavors from the seasonings, while the veggies add freshness and texture. The addition of black beans, corn, and tomatoes gives the dish a southwestern flair, making it hearty and filling. Plus, the cheese adds a creamy, melty finish that brings everything together. It’s a great option for meal prep, family dinners, or serving guests—this dish is versatile, delicious, and comes together in no time!

Santa Fe Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 red bell pepper (diced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
1 avocado (sliced, optional, for serving)
Lime wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure both sides of the chicken are evenly coated.
Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the corn, black beans, and cherry tomatoes, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the veggies are heated through and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally.
Assemble the dish: Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetable mixture, nestling the chicken in between the veggies. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve with a dollop of sour cream and slices of avocado, if desired. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 30 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

Grilled version: Instead of cooking the chicken in the skillet, you can grill the chicken breasts for a smoky, charred flavor. Then, top with the sautéed veggies and cheese on the grill or in the oven to melt the cheese.
Spicy option: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the vegetable mixture for a spicier version.
Taco version: Serve the Santa Fe Chicken as taco fillings, topped with salsa, lettuce, and cheese, or in burrito bowls with rice.
Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add extra beans, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Santa Fe Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They’re juicier and more flavorful, making the dish even more tender.

2. Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn is a great substitute for fresh corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, include sliced jalapeños or chili peppers in the vegetable mixture, or drizzle the finished dish with hot sauce or sriracha.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and veggies in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I make this dish without beans?

Yes, you can skip the black beans if you prefer, or substitute them with other legumes like kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas.

6. Can I add cheese to the vegetable mixture?

Yes, you can add cheese directly to the vegetable mixture before topping the chicken, but it’s typically added on top of the chicken for that melted, cheesy finish.

7. Can I serve this with rice?

Yes! Santa Fe Chicken pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

8. Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then top it with the vegetable mixture and cheese, baking for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

9. Can I skip the sour cream and avocado?

Absolutely! The sour cream and avocado are optional for garnish, but they do add a nice creamy contrast to the spiced chicken and veggies.

10. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, to make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use additional beans, grilled vegetables, or tofu as the protein source.

Conclusion

Santa Fe Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. The combination of juicy chicken, smoky seasonings, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese creates a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or serve it in tacos or bowls, this dish is versatile and delicious. Quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and bursting with vibrant flavors, Santa Fe Chicken is sure to become a family favorite!