Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake
This Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, zesty flavors, and a medley of wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, this dish is sure to impress. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s not only satisfying but also nutritious. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake is a delightful twist on traditional chicken dishes. The combination of taco seasoning, black beans, and sweet corn creates a fiesta of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s an all-in-one meal that requires minimal prep time and can easily be customized to fit your family’s preferences. Whether you serve it with Chipotle Aioli or a dollop of sour cream, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.
The Essentials
To create this mouthwatering Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast – Use 4-6 thin chicken breasts for quicker cooking.
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning – This adds a spicy kick to the dish.
- 15 oz black beans – Make sure they’re drained and rinsed.
- 15.25 oz sweet corn – Canned is convenient, but feel free to use fresh if you have it.
- 1 cup salsa – Chunky salsa elevates the texture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup green onions – Sliced for a fresh finish.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese – Shredded for that gooey, melty goodness.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
- Pico de gallo – For a fresh topping.
- Sour cream – A dollop on top adds creaminess.
- Chopped cilantro – For garnish and added flavor.
Recommended Tools
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, here are some tools you might find helpful:
- Large baking dish – A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
- Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients before baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for precise ingredient amounts.
- Sharp knife – For chopping your green onions and cilantro.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when taking your dish out of the oven!
Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your dish cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, season your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
In your baking dish, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Top them with the drained black beans and sweet corn, spreading them evenly.
Step 4: Add Salsa and Cheese
Pour the chunky salsa over the layered ingredients, ensuring everything is covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped cilantro over the dish. Serve it hot with pico de gallo and a dollop of sour cream on the side. Enjoy your delicious Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake!
Seasonal Spins
This versatile dish allows for seasonal variations that can keep your meals exciting:
- Summer: Add fresh diced tomatoes and avocado for a refreshing twist.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a hearty addition.
- Winter: Mix in some spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
- Spring: Top with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a light flavor.
Insider Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the taco seasoning for a few hours or overnight.
- If you like it spicy, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salsa.
- Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with a cheese blend or pepper jack for a kick.
- Serve with tortilla chips for an added crunch or as a side dish.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Your Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When properly sealed, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
For best results, add a splash of salsa or a sprinkle of cheese before reheating to keep it moist and flavorful.
Reader Q&A
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What side dishes pair well with Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, a simple green salad, or even some homemade Low Carb Chicken Casserole for a more filling meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for black beans?
If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can substitute them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
If you’re looking for more one-pan meals to make your life easier, consider these options:
Bring It Home
Gather your ingredients and make this Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake a part of your weekly meal planning. It’s not only delicious but also a time-saver in the kitchen. The blend of flavors and textures will keep your family coming back for more. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of this fantastic recipe, and let it inspire you to create even more delightful meals.
Loade Santa Fe Chicken Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, season chicken breasts with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange chicken in a baking dish, then top with black beans and sweet corn.
- Pour salsa over the layered ingredients, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes; uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with green onions and cilantro, and serve with pico de gallo and sour cream.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in taco seasoning for extra flavor.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Substitute cheddar with a cheese blend or pepper jack.
- Serve with tortilla chips for crunch.
