Description
This flavorful Santa Fe Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts seared and then simmered with a savory mixture of black beans, green chiles, tomatoes, and corn, topped with melted colby jack cheese and garnished with fresh lime juice and cilantro. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a southwestern twist.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 large chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise about 1/2 inch thick
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 cup onion diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans drained
- 1 (4.5 ounce) can green chiles
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn
- 2 cups colby jack cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- cilantro chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and coat both sides evenly with the spice mixture to ensure full flavor penetration.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics: Into the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then sauté the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened to your liking. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the drained black beans, green chiles, diced tomatoes, and corn. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Nestle the seared chicken breasts on top of the vegetable mixture in the skillet.
- Add Cheese and Simmer: Sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese has melted and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Garnish: Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as an alternative to chicken breasts for a juicier result.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for safety.
- Adjust spice levels by modifying chili powder or adding fresh jalapeños.
- Serve with rice or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
