When you think of a dish that dances on your palate with bold flavors, the Santa Fe Chicken Skillet should spring to mind. Imagine succulent chicken pieces sizzling in a skillet, mingling with sweet bell peppers and zesty spices, creating an aroma that draws everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame. perfect dessert pairing The vibrant colors of this dish are as captivating as its taste, making it not just a meal but a culinary experience that you won’t soon forget.
This recipe evokes memories of cozy family dinners when laughter and stories filled the air. Picture me standing by the stove, expertly flipping chicken pieces while my kids playfully bicker over who gets the first helping. creamy potato gratin It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have your taste buds singing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is quick and easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying
- The combination of spices creates an irresistible flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more
- With its colorful presentation, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough for casual weeknight meals or special occasions alike!
Sharing this dish with friends always leads to compliments and requests for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: easy English muffin pizzas.
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant red and green peppers; they add sweetness and color to the skillet.
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Onion: A medium yellow onion works best for balancing flavors; it becomes sweet when sautéed.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for depth; avoid pre-minced options if possible.
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Cumin: This spice adds warmth and earthiness; use ground cumin for convenience.
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Paprika: Smoked or sweet paprika will enhance the dish’s flavor profile wonderfully.
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Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while adding moisture during cooking.
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro provides a burst of freshness; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by preparing your ingredients so everything is within reach; this makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Heat Up That Skillet! Warm some olive oil in your favorite large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. You want that oil hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken.
Sauté the Chicken Place the diced chicken into the skillet in a single layer. Let it brown without stirring for about 5 minutes, allowing those delicious edges to crisp up.
Add Aromatics and Veggies Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic once the chicken is golden brown. Stir occasionally until onions become translucent and fragrant.
In Go The Peppers! Add sliced bell peppers next. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain their crunch.
Season It Up! Sprinkle cumin and paprika over your sizzling mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly before pouring in the chicken broth.
Simmer Away! Reduce heat to low and allow everything to simmer gently for about 10 minutes until flavors meld together beautifully and the sauce thickens slightly.
With these simple steps, you’ve crafted a flavorful Santa Fe Chicken Skillet that’s sure to please every palate at your table! Enjoy every bite as you soak up those delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen. delicious vegetarian nachos. For more inspiration, check out this street corn chicken bowl recipe.
You Must Know
- This Santa Fe Chicken Skillet recipe is not only delicious but also a one-pan wonder
- Packed with vibrant flavors and colors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests
- Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a meal prep hero
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in the skillet to lock in juices, then add veggies and spices while it cooks.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add black beans for extra protein and fiber.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat on low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a well-balanced dish, make sure to season your chicken before cooking
- Always chop your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking
- If you want a spicy kick, throw in some diced jalapeños during cooking
Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about that dinner party where everyone went back for seconds—turns out my Santa Fe Chicken Skillet was the star of the night! For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
FAQ
What can I serve with Santa Fe Chicken Skillet?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! It reheats beautifully without losing flavor or texture.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes! Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Santa Fe Chicken Skillet is a vibrant, one-pan dish that bursts with flavor and color. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken simmered with sweet bell peppers, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Enjoy an explosion of taste that will bring everyone to the table!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups bell peppers, sliced (1 red and 1 green)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add diced chicken in a single layer; cook without stirring for about 5 minutes until browned.
- Once the chicken is golden, add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers; cook for an additional 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Sprinkle in cumin and paprika; stir to combine before adding chicken broth.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes until flavors meld and sauce thickens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
