Name: Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt & pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 1 (10 ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained; 1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained & rinsed; 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup Mexican cheese blend; Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, to taste)

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This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a flavor-packed one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s filled with tender chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, spicy Ro-tel tomatoes, and melted cheese—all seasoned with southwest spices to make every bite irresistible. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is an easy and satisfying way to bring bold flavors to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: quick, easy, and delicious. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the combination of black beans, corn, and Ro-tel tomatoes provides a burst of texture and flavor. The smoky paprika and chili powder add just the right amount of heat, and the melted cheese ties it all together for a comforting meal. Plus, it’s made in one skillet—meaning fewer dishes to wash! Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 (10 ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained
1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained & rinsed
1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup Mexican cheese blend
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, to taste)

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the middle.
Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
Stir in the Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture heat through for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the tomato-bean-corn mixture over the chicken. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over everything, focusing on the chicken.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F) and the cheese is melted. For a browned cheese top, broil for a few minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more vegetables in the dish.
Use Ground Meat: If you prefer, swap the chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different take on the recipe.
Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the corn for a lower-carb version that still delivers plenty of flavor.
Cheese Variations: Swap the Mexican cheese blend for cheddar, pepper jack, or even a combination of your favorite cheeses.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If reheating in the skillet, you can add a little extra cheese and cover with a lid to help it melt.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They’ll be slightly juicier but still cook up wonderfully.

2. What can I substitute for Ro-tel tomatoes?

If you don’t have Ro-tel, you can use any diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of green chilies or a mild salsa to replicate the flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the skillet up to the point where it goes into the oven. Store it in the fridge and then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for the best results.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the entire skillet after cooking. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

6. What side dishes go well with this chicken skillet?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for added crunch.

7. Can I make this without the cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version. You can also substitute with a dairy-free cheese if preferred.

8. What is Ro-tel?

Ro-tel is a brand of diced tomatoes mixed with green chilies, often used to add a little heat and flavor to dishes. If you can’t find it, any similar combination of diced tomatoes and green chilies will work.

9. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes, you can use frozen corn instead of canned. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.

10. How spicy is this dish?

The spice level of this dish is mild to moderate, depending on the Ro-tel and chili powder you use. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or adding jalapeños for extra heat.

Conclusion

The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a simple yet delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its combination of tender chicken, savory beans, sweet corn, and zesty spices, it’s a meal that hits all the right notes. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan wonder makes it easy to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.