Hello friends, Chef André here!
Ready for a dinner that delivers big flavor without big effort? This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is exactly what busy families need on those hectic weeknights.In just 30 minutes, you’ll have tender, juicy chicken cooked in one skillet with black beans, sweet corn, warm spices, and melty cheese—all inspired by bold Southwest flavors. It’s colorful, comforting, naturally gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying.
What I love most about this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is how approachable it is. It’s the kind of meal that feels exciting and flavorful, yet simple enough that even picky eaters clean their plates. One pan, minimal prep, and maximum flavor—this recipe checks every box.
Why This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet Is a Family Favorite
This dish earns its place on the dinner table for many reasons:
- Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights
- One-skillet meal = easy cleanup
- Bold Southwest flavors without being spicy
- Gluten-free, naturally
- Kid-friendly & customizable
It’s hearty, colorful, and endlessly comforting.
Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Here’s everything you need to bring this dish to life:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese or cheddar
- ½ cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Chicken thighs for extra juiciness
- Pinto beans instead of black beans
- Pepper jack cheese for a little heat
- Dairy-free cheese if needed
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season generously with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Santa Fe Base
Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add black beans, corn, and salsa.
Stir and simmer for 3–4 minutes, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the pan.
4. Finish with Cheese
Nestle chicken back into the skillet.
Sprinkle cheese evenly over everything, cover, and cook for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Garnish with cilantro or green onions and serve hot.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Make this Santa Fe Chicken Skillet your own:
🌶 Spicy Southwest Version
Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
🥑 Fresh & Creamy
Top with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.
🧀 Extra Cheesy
Double the cheese and broil briefly for a golden top.
🌮 Taco-Style Skillet
Serve over rice or stuff into tortillas.
Chef’s Tips for the Best Santa Fe Chicken
- Don’t overcook the chicken – keep it juicy
- Use a wide skillet for even cooking
- Season in layers for deeper flavor
- Cover when melting cheese for best results
Simple techniques make all the difference.
What to Serve with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Cilantro lime rice
- Quinoa or cauliflower rice
- Warm tortillas
- Simple green salad
- Tortilla chips for scooping
It’s versatile enough for casual dinners or meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Reheat: Skillet over medium-low heat or microwave
- Freezer: Freeze without cheese for best texture
FAQ – Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
Is Santa Fe chicken spicy?
Not usually—it’s flavorful but mild. You control the heat.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it reheats very well.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely—add it with the beans and corn.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free as written.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~470 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
(Values vary depending on cheese and toppings.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Bold & Easy Dinner Win
This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet proves that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring to be easy. Bold flavors, tender chicken, and melty cheese come together in one skillet for a meal your whole family will love.
If you try this recipe, leave a comment, rate it, and tell me how you served it!
For safe handling and storage of poultry, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳