Santa Fe Chicken Bake

The Santa Fe Chicken Bake is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a busy weeknight. I remember the first time I made it—I was trying to find a meal that would bring my family together after a hectic day. As I mixed the vibrant ingredients, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken topped with a hearty mix of black beans and corn instantly made it a family favorite. It’s comforting yet vibrant, making it the perfect addition to our dinner table.

As we gathered around the table, each bite of the Santa Fe Chicken Bake reminded us of the importance of sharing meals together. I love how this recipe blends the rich flavors of the Southwest with ingredients that are simple and wholesome. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with loved ones.

Let’s dive into what makes this Santa Fe Chicken Bake so special!

Recipe Ingredients for Santa Fe Chicken Bake

The ingredients for the Santa Fe Chicken Bake come together to create a wholesome and satisfying meal. Each component plays a crucial role, blending flavors and textures that complement one another beautifully. From the juicy chicken to the crunchy green onions, every bite is a taste of home.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (4-6 thin chicken breasts) – The star of the show, providing a lean protein base that soaks up all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning – Adds a spicy kick and zesty flavor, making every bite an explosion of taste.
• 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can) – Packed with protein and fiber, they also lend a creamy texture.
• 15.25 oz sweet corn, drained (1 can) – Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, balancing the dish perfectly.
• 1 cup salsa, chunky – Brings a bold flavor and moisture, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced – Provides a fresh, crisp finish and a hint of onion flavor.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully on top, creating a deliciously gooey layer.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
• Pico de gallo – Fresh and vibrant, it’s a great garnish option that adds a zesty flavor.
• Sour cream – Creamy and tangy, it’s perfect for topping and balancing the spices.
• Chopped cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness and color, making the dish visually appealing.

The Method for Santa Fe Chicken Bake

Making the Santa Fe Chicken Bake is straightforward and fun! Let’s walk through the steps together as we create this flavorful dish. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and I’ll share tips along the way to ensure perfect results.

1. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). This temperature is ideal for baking the chicken and allowing it to stay juicy while the cheese melts.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the black beans, corn, green onions, taco seasoning, and salsa until everything is well combined. You want to ensure every ingredient is coated with the seasoning.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
4. Lay the seasoned chicken flat in a casserole dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced out so they cook uniformly.
5. Spread the bean mixture evenly over the top of the chicken. This will infuse the flavors directly into the meat.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mixture. This creates that nice, gooey layer when it bakes.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165˚F (75˚C). Keep an eye on it towards the end, as oven times can vary.
8. Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute.
9. Garnish with pico de gallo, sour cream, and chopped cilantro before serving. This adds a beautiful color and extra layers of flavor!
10. Enjoy your delicious Santa Fe Chicken Bake with your favorite sides!

Expert Tips about Santa Fe Chicken Bake

To perfect your Santa Fe Chicken Bake, here are some expert tips that will elevate your dish. Each tip is designed to help you avoid common pitfalls and enhance the overall flavor and presentation.

• Storage: To save leftovers, separate into meal-sized portions and store in airtight containers. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen after baking. Just let it cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Pairing: Serve the Santa Fe Chicken Bake with Mexican rice, cornbread, or a light salad with jalapeño ranch dressing for a complete meal.
• Serving Temperature: This dish is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature during gatherings.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like colby jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique twist.

How to Serve Santa Fe Chicken Bake

Serving the Santa Fe Chicken Bake is as enjoyable as making it! As you dig into this flavorful casserole, consider these ideas for a delightful presentation:

• Family Style: Serve the dish directly from the casserole for a casual, family-style meal. Just provide everyone with their own plates!
• On a Bed of Rice: Serve the Santa Fe Chicken Bake over a bed of fluffy Mexican rice to soak up the flavors.
• With Fresh Sides: Pair it with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Buffet Style: If hosting a gathering, offer the Santa Fe Chicken Bake alongside sides like cornbread, guacamole, and tortilla chips for a full spread.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in individual portions for easy reheating during the week.
• Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even festive occasions like Cinco de Mayo!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Santa Fe Chicken Bake is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe worth trying. I encourage you to make it for your next family gathering or weeknight dinner—your loved ones will surely appreciate it. Enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results!

Santa Fe Chicken Bake

The ultimate comfort food, Santa Fe Chicken Bake is a hearty casserole loaded with juicy chicken, black beans, and corn. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for the whole family, offering vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Make it tonight for a delightful meal that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast 4-6 thin chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed (1 can)
• 15.25 oz sweet corn drained (1 can)
• 1 cup salsa chunky
• 1/4 cup green onions sliced
• 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pico de gallo
• Sour cream
• Chopped cilantro

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C).
• In a large bowl, mix together the black beans, corn, green onions, taco seasoning, and salsa until well combined.
• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
• Lay the seasoned chicken flat in a casserole dish.
• Spread the bean mixture evenly over the top of the chicken.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mixture.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165˚F (75˚C).
• Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
• Garnish with pico de gallo, sour cream, and chopped cilantro before serving.
• Enjoy your delicious Santa Fe Chicken Bake with your favorite sides!

Notes

• Fresh corn: can be used in place of canned corn. Use about 1 cup.
• Dried black beans: can be used in place of canned. Use about 1 cup.
• Cheddar cheese: can be substituted with colby jack or a Mexican blend if desired.
• Storage: To save leftovers, separate into meal-sized portions and place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to a month.
• Reheat: This can be reheated in the microwave in 30-second increments.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with Mexican rice, cornbread, or a salad with jalapeño ranch.

Keyword chicken casserole, easy dinner recipes, Mexican chicken bake, Santa Fe Chicken Bake

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.