When it comes to delicious home-cooked meals, few dishes can rival the vibrant, zesty flavors of Santa Fe Chicken. Imagine succulent chicken breasts sizzling in a pan, infused with the smoky aroma of spices, and topped with colorful veggies that practically sing on your plate. try our cinnamon apple crumb cake indulge in pumpkin coffee cake This dish is a fiesta for your taste buds that will have you dancing around the kitchen while you cook.
Many people have a special connection to Santa Fe Chicken; for me, it’s reminiscent of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the aroma of spiced chicken wafting through the air. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving comfort food after a long day, this dish is sure to impress. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t make this sooner! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Santa Fe Chicken
- This amazing Santa Fe Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Santa Fe Chicken:
- 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.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green peppers not only adds color but also brings sweetness and crunch to the dish.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.
- Chili Powder: This is key for that Southwest kick; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
- Cumin: Adds an earthy flavor that complements the other spices beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Santa Fe Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Santa Fe Chicken:
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Space
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heating up your grill if you prefer that smoky flavor. Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or brush your grill grates with oil.
Step 2: Season Those Chickens!
Take your boneless skins off those chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. Feel free to channel your inner chef while doing this—give it a sprinkle like you mean it!
Step 3: Create Your Flavorful Sauce
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and a dash of olive oil. Whisk it together like you’re trying to impress Gordon Ramsay! This sauce is where all that savory goodness starts.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, toss in sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about five minutes should do it—and let those beautiful colors pop.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Place your seasoned chicken into the baking dish or onto the grill. Pour that gorgeous sauce over everything—don’t hold back! Then scatter those sautéed veggies all around like confetti at a party.
Step 6: Bake or Grill to Perfection
Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or grill until cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Once done, let it rest for five minutes before serving—the anticipation will build up like waiting for your favorite show’s next season!
Serve your masterpiece with rice or tortillas and watch everyone dive in with delight. Trust me; they’ll be asking for seconds!
You Must Know About Santa Fe Chicken
- This amazing Santa Fe Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Santa Fe Chicken Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a hot pan to lock in those juicy flavors, then prepare your rice or quinoa while simultaneously whipping up your favorite sauce. This sequence maximizes efficiency and ensures everything is ready around the same time.
Add Your Touch to Santa Fe Chicken
Feel free to swap out proteins, toss in some black beans for extra fiber, or use different spices to suit your taste buds. The beauty of Santa Fe Chicken lies in its versatility; make it yours!
Storing & Reheating Santa Fe Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep it moist and flavorful, ensuring every bite remains delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Santa Fe Chicken
- This amazing Santa Fe Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
When seasoning your chicken, don’t be shy! A well-seasoned protein is key to a flavorful dish that’ll impress even the pickiest eaters.
Let your chicken rest after cooking; this makes it juicier and more tender when you finally dig in.
Experiment with garnishes like fresh cilantro or lime wedges that enhance both appearance and flavor—it’s all about that wow factor!
The first time I made Santa Fe Chicken, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! It turned into the go-to dish for our potluck gatherings, bringing everyone together over delicious bites and laughter.
FAQs About Santa Fe Chicken
What is Santa Fe Chicken?
Santa Fe Chicken is a flavorful dish originating from the southwestern United States. It typically features grilled or baked chicken breast seasoned with spices and topped with vibrant ingredients like tomatoes, bell peppers, and cheese. Often served over rice or alongside tortillas, this dish captures the essence of southwestern cuisine, combining both hearty and fresh elements. The use of ingredients such as black beans and corn adds to its nutritional value, making it a popular choice for healthy meals. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare at home.
How do I make Santa Fe Chicken?
To make Santa Fe Chicken, start by marinating chicken breasts in a blend of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and your favorite spices such as cumin and chili powder. Grill or bake the chicken until fully cooked. Next, top it with sautéed bell peppers, onions, black beans, and shredded cheese. explore our full recipe collection For added flavor, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe that captures the essence of southwestern flavors.
What can I serve with Santa Fe Chicken?
Santa Fe Chicken pairs well with various sides that complement its bold flavors. Consider serving it over fluffy cilantro-lime rice or alongside fresh avocado salad for a refreshing touch. Grilled vegetables or corn on the cob are excellent options too. You can also serve it with warm tortillas to create delicious wraps filled with all the tasty toppings. These side dishes enhance the meal while keeping it balanced and nutritious. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Apples with Feta recipe.
Is Santa Fe Chicken healthy?
Yes, Santa Fe Chicken can be a healthy option when prepared thoughtfully. Lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein while being low in fat. The inclusion of colorful vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes adds essential vitamins and minerals. If you use whole grains like brown rice or quinoa as a base, you’ll increase fiber content too. By controlling portion sizes and using fresh ingredients, you can enjoy this flavorful dish without compromising your health goals.
Conclusion for Santa Fe Chicken
In conclusion, Santa Fe Chicken is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of southwestern cuisine. With its combination of juicy grilled chicken and fresh toppings like vegetables and cheese, it offers both taste and nutrition. Preparing this dish at home is simple and allows for customization based on personal preferences. Whether served over rice or in wraps, Santa Fe Chicken makes an excellent choice for any meal occasion. Give this recipe a try to experience the deliciousness firsthand!
Santa Fe Chicken
Santa Fe Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of southwestern cuisine. Juicy, marinated chicken breasts are paired with colorful bell peppers and onions, delivering a delightful explosion of taste. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, ensuring it will quickly become a household favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed red and green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and olive oil.
- Sauté sliced bell peppers and onions in a skillet over medium heat until softened.
- Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish or on the grill. Pour sauce over the top and scatter sautéed veggies around.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or grill until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with vegetables (about 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 95mg






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