Cheesy Santa Fe Chicken Skillet (Quick & Flavor-Packed Dinner)

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Created on July 31st, 2025 at 12:18 pm

Santa Fe Chicken Skillet

✨ Why You’ll Love It:
Bold southwest flavors, melty cheese, and pantry staples come together in this quick, hearty one-pan dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. A family favorite for busy nights!

⏱️ Time Breakdown:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients:

2 large chicken breasts
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp chili powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
½ medium sweet onion, chopped
1 (10 oz) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1 (14 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
1 (12 oz) can corn, drained
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and move the rack to the middle position.
Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
Sauté the onion in the same skillet for 5 minutes, until softened and golden.
Stir in the Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Let everything heat through, scraping up any browned bits for flavor.
Return the chicken to the pan and spoon some of the tomato mixture over the top.
Sprinkle the cheese generously over everything.
Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F) and the cheese is melty and golden. Broil briefly for a bubbly cheese top if desired 🔥
Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using), and serve hot. Enjoy! 😋

💡 Pro Tips:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Make it Milder: Use mild Rotel or substitute with regular diced tomatoes + canned green chilies.
No Ro-tel? Use diced tomatoes with jalapeños or poblano peppers for a similar Tex-Mex flavor.
Serving Ideas: Serve with fluffy white rice, inside warm tortillas, or with a crisp avocado corn salad for balance.

📊 Nutrition Info:

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 plate	420	35g	22g	18g	6g	5g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.