Name: Delicious Santa Chicken Skillet for Quick Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 1/2 medium onion; 1 (10 oz) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies; 1 (14 oz) can black beans; 1 (12 oz) can corn; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup Mexican cheese blend; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt & pepper (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional, to taste)

Santa Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish that can transform your dinner routine. Featuring chicken breasts cooked with zesty Ro-tel tomatoes, hearty black beans, and sweet corn, this one-pan meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, it’s topped with melty cheese and fresh cilantro for an irresistible finish.

Why You’ll Love This Santa Chicken Skillet

This Santa Chicken Skillet recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s an easy Santa Chicken Skillet meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Second, it’s perfect for family meals or casual get-togethers, making it versatile for any occasion. Third, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy, offering options for Santa Chicken Skillet with vegetables or Santa Chicken Skillet with rice. Fourth, the combination of flavors will leave your taste buds dancing, thanks to the southwest spices. Fifth, it’s a quick Santa Chicken Skillet dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Finally, this dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Delicious Santa Chicken Skillet for Quick Dinners - Santa Chicken Skillet - main visual representation

Ingredients for Santa Chicken Skillet

Gather these items:

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

How to Make Santa Chicken Skillet Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: In an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
Step 4: Sauté chopped onion in the same skillet until softened.
Step 5: Add Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika; heat through.
Step 6: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon some mixture over it, and sprinkle with cheese.
Step 7: Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F and cheese is melted.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Santa Chicken Skillet

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Top with fresh cilantro for added flavor.
For a healthier option, consider using skinless chicken breasts.
Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.

Best Ways to Serve Santa Chicken Skillet

This Santa Chicken Skillet is best served warm and can be paired with various sides. Try serving it with a fresh salad or warm tortillas for a complete meal. For extra flavor, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side. It also makes for an excellent Santa Chicken Skillet for the holidays!

How to Store and Reheat Santa Chicken Skillet

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just make sure to heat it until it’s fully warmed through. This meal is great for meal prep and can be enjoyed over several days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Chicken Skillet

What’s the secret to perfect Santa Chicken Skillet?

The secret lies in searing the chicken well and combining it with flavorful ingredients like Ro-tel tomatoes and black beans. These elements enhance the overall taste of the dish, making it a standout meal.

Can I make Santa Chicken Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to cook. This will save you time during busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Santa Chicken Skillet?

Ensure that the chicken is properly seasoned and cooked through to avoid dryness. Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking the chicken or burning the cheese topping.

Variations of Santa Chicken Skillet You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:
1. Add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a Santa Chicken Skillet with vegetables.
2. For a heartier option, serve it over rice, creating a Santa Chicken Skillet with rice.
3. You can also try different cheese blends or spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Each variation adds its unique twist to this delicious dish.

For more delicious recipes, check out this link for quick dinner ideas, and this page for more chicken recipes. You can also explore healthy meal options that fit your dietary needs.