Introduction to Santa Fe Chicken Recipe
Cooking at home can feel like an overwhelming endeavor for young professionals juggling busy schedules, but it doesn't have to be! Embracing homemade meals not only promotes healthier eating habits but also saves you money in the long run. When you cook for yourself, you control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and extra calories often found in takeout meals. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from creating a dish from scratch, like this mouthwatering Santa Fe Chicken Recipe.
This recipe is a perfect one-skillet solution for those hectic weeknights. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a hearty meal featuring tender chicken breasts, black beans, sweet corn, and gooey melted cheese that the entire family will adore. Imagine a warm, comforting dinner that invokes the vibrant flavors of the Southwest without demanding hours of your time!
And let's not forget the bonus: cooking can be a great way to unwind after a long day. For an extra touch of flavor, look into using fresh herbs like cilantro or lime, which not only enhance taste but also bring a pop of color to your plate. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s cook!
Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken
Essential pantry staples
To whip up this delicious Santa Fe Chicken Recipe, you’ll need a few essential pantry staples that pack a flavorful punch. These include:
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm depth of flavor.
- Onion powder: Provides sweetness and richness.
- Ancho chili powder: Gives a mild heat with a touch of smokiness.
- Ground cumin: A key component for that warm, earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all flavors in your dish.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, it adds a lovely richness.
Having these ingredients on hand ensures that you can make this delightful dish any night of the week and create other fabulous recipes too!
Fresh ingredients for maximum flavor
Fresh ingredients elevate a dish significantly, and for our Santa Fe Chicken, here are the must-haves:
- Chicken breasts: Opt for large, boneless, skinless breasts or cutlets for tenderness.
- Onion and garlic: Freshly diced onion and minced garlic provide aromatic bases.
- Diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans: These canned ingredients are nutritious and flavorful, adding color and texture.
- Green chilies: Provide a mild punch that complements the other ingredients.
- Mexican cheese mix: Shredded cheese creates a rich, creamy topping that brings everything together.
- Fresh cilantro: For garnish, this herb adds brightness and a pop of color.
So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! For more recipe ideas using chicken, explore options like chicken stir-fry or grilled chicken for easy weeknight meals.
Preparing Santa Fe Chicken
Creating a delicious Santa Fe Chicken recipe can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these friendly and straightforward steps. Let’s dive into the cooking process!
Get your chicken ready
First things first—ensure your chicken is prepped and primed for cooking! Start by patting dry two large chicken breasts with paper towels. This simple step helps achieve a beautiful sear. Then, slice each breast in half lengthwise, producing four thinner cutlets that cook quickly and evenly. Remember, the key to juicy chicken is not overcrowding the skillet, so make sure your pieces have a bit of space when cooking.
Spice it up with seasonings
Now that your chicken is ready, let’s make it flavor-packed! In a small bowl, combine half a teaspoon of garlic powder, half a teaspoon of onion powder, a teaspoon of ancho chili powder, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Get generous with this mix and season both sides of your chicken cutlets. This spice medley adds depth to our Santa Fe Chicken recipe, with the ancho chili powder lending just the right amount of smokiness.
Sear the chicken to perfection
Grab a large 12-inch skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil along with the butter, letting it melt together. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place your chicken cutlets in. Sear each side for about 3-5 minutes until they’re golden brown and almost cooked through. This step locks in those delicious juices. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a clean plate.
Sauté the aromatics
Using the same skillet ensures that you capture all those leftover flavorful bits from the chicken. Reduce the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of olive oil, followed by a large diced onion. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Then, toss in five minced cloves of garlic and allow that to cook for another minute. The aroma will be irresistible!
Combine the hearty ingredients
Now it’s time to build the heartiness of your Santa Fe Chicken recipe. Stir in a 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes, a drained can of corn, and a drained can of black beans. Adding in a can of green chilies and half a teaspoon of ground cumin brings everything together. Don't forget about a squeeze of lime juice to balance out the flavors! Heat everything through for about five minutes.
Melt the cheese and finish cooking
Return the chicken to the skillet and scoop some of that fantastic bean mixture over each piece. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Mexican cheese mix on top. Now, cover the skillet and let it cook over medium-low heat until the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F. If you prefer, you can also pop the skillet in a preheated 350°F oven for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy!
With everything prepared, you’re all set for a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s sure to please your tastebuds. This Santa Fe Chicken recipe is not just a family favorite; it’s quick and easy enough for a busy weeknight dinner. Happy cooking!
Variations on Santa Fe Chicken
Santa Fe Chicken with Added Veggies
Elevate your Santa Fe chicken recipe by tossing in some seasonal veggies! Think bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for a burst of color and nutrients. Not only do these additions amp up the flavor, but they also make the dish more heart-healthy and satisfying. Plus, if you're trying to sneak more veggies into your family's meals, this is a delicious way to do it. You can experiment with different combinations based on what you have on hand or what's in season!
Santa Fe Chicken for Meal Prep
Looking for a quick weeknight dinner? This Santa Fe chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! Cook a double batch on the weekend, then portion it into containers for grab-and-go lunches or dinners. It’s versatile enough that you can enjoy it with rice, quinoa, or even over a bed of greens for a fresh salad. Storing it in the fridge ensures you have a nutritious meal ready in minutes during your busy week. Check out this resource for tips on effective meal prepping.
By mixing it up, you’ll find this dish remains a staple in your kitchen, no matter your schedule or cravings!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Santa Fe Chicken
Best Practices for Seasoning
When crafting your Santa Fe Chicken Recipe, seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to be generous with the spice blend—coating the chicken thoroughly enhances flavor complexity. Try mixing fresh herbs like cilantro into the spices for an additional flavor boost. If you're in the mood for a bit more heat, adding cayenne pepper can provide that extra kick.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Cheese Melt
To get that perfect cheese melt with your Santa Fe Chicken, make sure to cover the skillet while the cheese is melting. This traps heat and promotes even melting. You can also consider using a mix of cheeses, like Monterey Jack and cheddar, for a more layered flavor profile. If you're oven-baking, keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
For further insights on cooking methods, feel free to check out trusted sources like America's Test Kitchen. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Santa Fe Chicken
Pairing Sides That Complement the Dish
To elevate your Santa Fe Chicken recipe to new heights, consider pairing it with some delightful sides. Here are a few tasty options:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, it absorbs the savory juices beautifully.
- Fresh Guacamole: The creaminess of avocado balances the dish's spices.
- Spicy Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, tomatoes, and lime brightens every bite.
- Chips and Salsa: Perfect for scooping up any leftovers, and a crowd-pleaser at gatherings!
Creative Ways to Serve
Get innovative with your presentation! You can serve Santa Fe Chicken in various exciting ways:
- Bowl Style: Layer your chicken over a bed of quinoa or rice, topped with avocado and crisp lettuce.
- Taco Night: Slice the chicken and place it in warm tortillas, adding toppings like sour cream and fresh herbs.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use the chicken mixture to fill halved bell peppers for a nutritious twist.
- With a Side of Beans: Serve it with a side of refried beans for a hearty meal.
These suggestions not only enhance the flavor but also bring a fun twist to a classic favorite! For more pairing inspiration, check out this article on side dishes.
Time Breakdown for Santa Fe Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting ready for the Santa Fe Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes. It's a breeze to chop, season, and prep your ingredients so you can dive right into the cooking!
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped, the cooking part will take around 30 minutes. This gives you time to let those flavors meld together beautifully while you enjoy the aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Total Time
All in all, you're looking at a total of 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this recipe is a quick and satisfying dinner option that the whole family will appreciate.
For more helpful kitchen tips and inspiration, check out resources like Cooking Light or Bon Appétit!
Nutritional Facts for Santa Fe Chicken
Calories
This Santa Fe Chicken recipe packs a satisfying 484 calories per serving, making it a great option for a hearty weeknight dinner without the guilt.
Protein
Packed with flavor and nutrition, each serving contains 31 grams of protein. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their protein intake, ideal for muscle repair and overall health.
Fiber
With 9 grams of fiber per serving, this dish helps promote good digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Incorporating fiber into your meals can aid in weight management and support gut health.
Feel free to explore more about the benefits of a balanced diet here and check out nutrient-rich ingredients that can elevate your everyday meals!
FAQs about Santa Fe Chicken
What types of cheese work best for this recipe?
For the Santa Fe Chicken recipe, a Mexican cheese blend is the star. However, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for some spice, or even Cheddar for a rich flavor. The melting quality is key, so steer clear of hard cheeses like Parmesan. You want that gooey, delicious topping that makes every bite irresistible!
Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Absolutely! If you're looking to switch things up, try turkey-sized cutlets or even beef strips. For a vegetarian option, you could use grilled portobello mushrooms or a combination of black beans and quinoa for a protein-packed, meatless version. The flavor profile pairs well with different proteins, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
How to store leftovers properly?
To keep your Santa Fe Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Just let it cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It should last for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
Conclusion on Santa Fe Chicken
In summary, this Santa Fe Chicken Recipe delivers delightful flavors in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights. With its combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and nutritious beans, it's a meal that pleases everyone. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!
Santa Fe Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- 12-Inch Skillet
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1 tablespoon butter
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 large onion diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 15 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 1 15 ounce can corn drained
- 1 15 ounce can black beans drained (not rinsed)
- 1 4.5 ounce can green chilies
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ lime juiced
Cheese and Garnish
- 1½ cups Mexican cheese mix shredded
- Fresh cilantro to garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels and slice them in half lengthwise to make four thinner chicken breast cutlets.
- In a small bowl combine the garlic powder, onion powder, ancho chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Generously season both sides of each chicken breast cutlet.
Cooking
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter to a large 12-inch skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear each side for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
- To the same skillet set over medium heat add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onions and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
- Stir in the tomatoes, corn, black beans, green chilis, ground cumin, lime juice, and any leftover seasoning mixture that was not used to season the chicken breasts. Mix well to combine. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken back to the skillet, scooping some of the bean mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Sprinkle the cheese over each chicken breast.
- Cover and continue to cook over medium-low heat until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through, OR, place in a preheated 350°F oven until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted (chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve garnished with fresh chopped cilantro and lime juice.
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