Description
This Santa Fe Chicken recipe is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish featuring tender, spiced chicken breasts baked with a savory mixture of black beans, corn, and salsa, topped with melted Mexican cheese. Perfectly balanced with bold southwestern spices and fresh garnishes, it makes a satisfying weeknight dinner that pairs well with tortillas or rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
Bean and Corn Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional Serving Suggestions
- Sour cream
- Avocado slices
- Lime wedges
- Tortillas or rice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until the outside is browned but the chicken is not fully cooked. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Bean and Corn Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black beans, drained corn, and salsa. Mix well to blend the flavors, then pour this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the chicken and bean mixture. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot with optional toppings such as sour cream, avocado slices, lime wedges, and alongside warm tortillas or cooked rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- You can use homemade salsa or your favorite store-bought version depending on your preferred spice level and flavor.
- For a spicier dish, add extra chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
- If you want a lower-fat option, use a reduced-fat cheese or reduce the cheese amount.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern American
