why make this recipe
Santa Fe Chicken is full of bright flavors and is quick to make. It uses simple ingredients you can buy at any store. The dish feeds a family and makes good leftovers. If you like easy chicken dinners, try this and then check a similar simple meal like the 4-ingredient ranch chicken bake for more ideas.
introduction
This recipe mixes chicken with corn, black beans, and melted cheese. You get a warm, slightly spicy meal with little work. You can cook it in a pan and finish in the oven. It works for weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. For another stuffed chicken idea, see the cranberry brie stuffed chicken.
how to make Santa Fe Chicken
Make the chicken in two steps: sear on the stove, then bake with toppings. Sear gives the chicken a nice color and locks in juices. Top with corn, beans, and cheese, and bake until the chicken is done and the cheese melts. If you like skillet meals, you might also enjoy a different style like the Mediterranean chicken skillet.
Ingredients :
- chicken breasts
- Mexican blend cheese
- corn
- black beans
- olive oil
- seasoning (e.g., taco seasoning, cumin, paprika)
- salt
- pepper
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
- Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and top with corn, beans, and cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot.
how to serve Santa Fe Chicken
Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or a green salad. Add a squeeze of lime or a spoon of salsa for more flavor. You can put the chicken on top of lettuce for a low-carb bowl.
how to store Santa Fe Chicken
Cool the chicken to room temperature, then place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warm. You can freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
tips to make Santa Fe Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry so it sears well.
- Use canned corn and beans for a quick meal.
- Taste the seasoning on a small piece before baking and adjust salt or spice.
- For a finishing touch, add fresh cilantro or a little lime juice.
- For dessert after this savory meal, try the apple pie stuffed cheesecake.
variation (if any)
- Make it spicy: add jalapeños or cayenne.
- Make it mild: reduce taco seasoning and use plain cumin and paprika.
- Make it saucy: add some salsa or enchilada sauce before baking.
- Make it slow-cooker: cook on low for 4-6 hours until tender, then add cheese at the end.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs stay juicier and may need similar or slightly longer bake time.
Q: Do I need to thaw frozen corn or beans?
A: You can use them frozen, but drain and rinse canned beans. Pat toppings lightly dry if very wet.
Q: How do I know the chicken is cooked?
A: The safe internal temperature is 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for best result.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can assemble and refrigerate for a few hours, then bake when ready. Add cheese just before baking for best melt.
Conclusion
This Santa Fe Chicken is an easy, tasty meal you can make with simple pantry items. For more full recipe ideas and a similar stovetop-to-oven version, see Santa Fe Chicken Recipe – The Forked Spoon. If you prefer slow-cooker methods, this crock pot version gives you a hands-off option: Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken – Skinnytaste.
Santa Fe Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts
- 1 cup Mexican blend cheese Shredded
- 1 cup corn Canned or frozen
- 1 cup black beans Canned and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons seasoning e.g., taco seasoning, cumin, paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
- Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and top with corn, beans, and cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
