Dinner

Santa Fe Skillet Chicken Recipe

ByClara Bennett May 13, 2026May 13, 2026

Introduction

This Santa Fe Skillet Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and cooked with a spicy kick, then topped with a cheesy black bean and pepper mixture. It’s easy to make and great for serving with tortilla chips or a fresh salad.

A close-up of a cooked chicken breast held by a metal spatula, showing three main layers: the browned and grilled chicken base, a melted yellow cheese layer covering the chicken, and a topping of cooked black beans, thin red bell pepper strips, and soft caramelized onions with small green cilantro leaves scattered on top. The dish is in a black cast iron skillet on a white marbled surface, with more chicken pieces and toppings visible in the skillet's background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp. taco seasoning
1 tsp. cayenne pepper
Kosher salt, to taste
1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, thinly sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 (15-oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups shredded yellow cheddar
Finely chopped fresh cilantro, for serving
Tortilla chips, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook the chicken, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 8 to 10 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Stir in the black beans and heat through, then transfer this mixture to a separate plate.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the skillet. Top the chicken with the shredded cheddar cheese, then spoon the bean and pepper mixture over the cheese. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt completely.
Step 4: Sprinkle the finished dish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with tortilla chips on the side, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
Swap yellow cheddar for pepper jack to add extra spice and flavor.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Storage

Store leftover Santa Fe Skillet Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender.

How to Serve

A white plate with a piece of grilled chicken breast at the center, topped with melted yellow cheddar cheese, black beans, and thin slices of cooked red bell pepper and caramelized onions scattered on and around the chicken. The chicken has a browned, crispy outside with visible grill marks. Black beans and cooked onions are spread around the plate. A silver fork holds a bite of chicken, red pepper, and onion near the bottom right. Small green cilantro leaves are sprinkled on top for garnish. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier texture. Adjust cooking time accordingly, making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.