Introduction
Santa Fe Chicken is a bold, Tex-Mex inspired dish loaded with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Featuring juicy chicken breasts, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and zesty southwestern spices, this one-pan or slow cooker meal is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s healthy, hearty, and endlessly versatile—serve it over rice, in tacos, or on a salad!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (or 1½ cups frozen corn)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (e.g., Rotel)
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Slow Cooker Method:
- Layer ingredients:
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. - Add remaining ingredients:
Top with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Don’t stir—let the flavors layer. - Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and shreds easily. - Shred the chicken:
Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the pot and stir everything together. - Top and serve:
Sprinkle cheese on top, cover until melted (about 5 minutes). Serve over rice, in tortillas, or in bowls.
Oven Method (Quick Version):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken in a baking dish, season with spices.
- Add beans, corn, tomatoes, and salsa around the chicken.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp).
- Shred chicken, stir everything, and top with cheese. Return to oven uncovered for 5–10 minutes to melt cheese.
Description
Santa Fe Chicken is a fiesta of flavor in every bite—tender shredded chicken soaked in southwestern spices, paired with sweet corn, hearty beans, and zesty tomatoes. It’s a warm, colorful dish that’s just as delicious as it is easy to make. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Tips
- Use fresh or frozen corn for extra crunch and flavor.
- Add heat with cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or spicy salsa.
- Prep ahead: Combine all ingredients in a freezer bag for a make-ahead dump dinner.
- Use chicken thighs for even more flavor and tenderness.
- Want a creamier version? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
Variations
- Santa Fe Chicken Bowls: Serve over rice or quinoa with avocado, cheese, and lime.
- Santa Fe Tacos or Burritos: Wrap the filling in tortillas with shredded lettuce and sour cream.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or on a bed of greens.
- Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed bell peppers or spinach near the end of cooking.
- Cheesy Bake: Top with cheese and broil for a bubbly, golden finish.
Correction (Common Mistakes to Avoid)
- Dry chicken? Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer or opt for chicken thighs.
- Watery sauce? Remove lid and cook uncovered for the last 20 minutes, or drain some liquid before serving.
- Bland flavor? Make sure your spices are fresh, and don’t skip the salsa for an extra flavor punch.
- Too spicy? Use mild salsa and skip extra chiles if serving to kids or spice-sensitive eaters.
Enjoy!
Santa Fe Chicken is the ultimate no-fuss dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers warm, zesty comfort in every bite.