Santa Fe Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, easy to make, and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, look no further than the Santa Fe Chicken Recipe. This flavorful dish features tender chicken breasts seasoned with a blend of spices, paired with sweet corn, black beans, and topped off with melted cheese. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, it’s no surprise that this dish has become a favorite in many households.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can make it on a weeknight for a quick and satisfying dinner or prepare it ahead of time for a stress-free party meal. Whether you serve it on a bed of rice, in a taco shell, or over a salad, this Santa Fe Chicken is sure to please.
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Santa Fe Topping
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the topping. In a medium bowl, combine the corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro. Stir to combine, and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and cook it for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re grilling, cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet or grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- While the chicken is resting, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken breasts. Return the chicken to the skillet or grill for another 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese has melted.
- Once the cheese has melted, top the chicken with the prepared Santa Fe topping of corn, black beans, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
1. With Rice
For a hearty meal, serve the Santa Fe Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. You can opt for white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
2. In Tacos or Wraps
To make this dish even more portable, place the chicken and toppings into soft flour or corn tortillas for delicious Santa Fe Chicken tacos or wraps. Add a drizzle of sour cream and salsa for extra flavor.
3. On a Salad
For a lighter meal, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens or romaine lettuce. Add some extra toppings such as avocado slices, extra cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh touch.
4. With Tortilla Chips
For a fun and interactive meal, serve the Santa Fe Chicken with a side of crunchy tortilla chips. Let everyone top their chips with pieces of chicken, cheese, and the Santa Fe toppings.
Tips for Success
1. Don’t Skip the Marinade
Allowing the chicken to marinate not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy. Even if you’re short on time, marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, try to use fresh vegetables, especially for the Santa Fe topping. Fresh tomatoes, red bell peppers, and cilantro make a big difference in flavor and texture.
3. Adjust the Spice Level
This recipe is mildly spiced, but you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your preference. Add some diced jalapeños to the topping for a kick, or include some hot sauce in the marinade for extra heat.
4. Make It Ahead
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the chicken, melt the cheese, and top with the Santa Fe mixture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Flavor-Packed
The combination of spices in the chicken marinade, paired with the fresh, vibrant topping, makes every bite a burst of flavor. The smoky and slightly spicy chicken perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn and the heartiness of the black beans.
2. Healthy and Nutritious
With lean chicken, fiber-packed black beans, and fresh vegetables, this recipe is packed with protein and nutrients. It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
3. Versatile
The Santa Fe Chicken can be served in so many ways – whether you’re looking for a filling dinner, a fun taco night, or a light salad, this dish can be adapted to suit your needs.
Variations
1. Make It Spicy
For those who love a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños to the topping or mix in some chipotle powder to the chicken marinade.
2. Make It Vegetarian
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a similar texture and flavor.
3. Add Avocado
Top the Santa Fe Chicken with sliced avocado for added creaminess and a boost of healthy fats.
4. Add Rice to the Topping
To make this a one-pot meal, stir some cooked rice into the Santa Fe topping mixture before placing it on the chicken. This makes for a hearty and satisfying dish with even more texture.
Conclusion
This Santa Fe Chicken recipe is a winning dish that’s packed with flavor and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it over rice, in tacos, or on a salad, it’s a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and a punch of flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and time again.
Santa Fe Chicken Recipe
If you're craving a dish that's bursting with bold flavors, easy to make, and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, look no further than the Santa Fe Chicken Recipe. This flavorful dish features tender chicken breasts seasoned with a blend of spices, paired with sweet corn, black beans, and topped off with melted cheese. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, it’s no surprise that this dish has become a favorite in many households.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (150g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup (150g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup (150g) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside. - Prepare the Santa Fe Topping:
In the same skillet, add the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Assemble the Dish:
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
Notes
- Grilled Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing them.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for more vegetables in the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.