Santa Fe Chicken Delight: A Flavorful One-Pan Meal for Busy Nights

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When you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal without the hassle of multiple pans, this Santa Fe Chicken Delight is the answer! This one-pan dish combines seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and a blend of melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is flexible enough for dietary preferences—swap in tofu for a vegetarian option or lean turkey for a twist!

With minimal prep and a few pantry staples, Santa Fe Chicken Delight brings a blend of Southwest-inspired flavors to your table. Let’s dive into this delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe.

Recipe: Santa Fe Chicken Delight
Ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:
• • 1 to 1½ lbs chicken breasts (or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option)
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 2 tbsp oil, divided
  • ½ onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 1½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (or vegan cheese for dairy-free)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Season the Chicken:
   Rub the taco seasoning onto both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet, cover, and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Veggies and Beans:
   Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
5. Simmer with the Chicken:
   Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet among the veggies. Simmer for 6–7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Add Cheese and Melt:
   Sprinkle the shredded cheese blend over the chicken and veggies. Cover the skillet and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
7. Serve and Garnish:
   Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve with rice, tortillas, or your favorite sides.

Helpful Tips:

• Protein Alternatives: Try this recipe with lean ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add Some Spice: For extra heat, mix in sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or a bed of greens for a low-carb variation.

Nutrition Info:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

This Santa Fe Chicken Delight is a simple yet delicious meal that brings big flavors to your dinner table in under 40 minutes. Perfect for a busy night, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to customize for everyone’s preferences. Enjoy the flavors of the Southwest in this warm, cheesy, and satisfying one-pan meal!

Source: Facebook Group