The aroma of simmering spices and tender chicken fills your home – that's the magic of a Santa Fe chicken crock pot recipe. This Southwestern classic is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you're a seasoned crock-pot cook or a beginner, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It's perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings.
What is Santa Fe Chicken?
Santa Fe chicken is a Southwestern-inspired dish characterized by its blend of bold flavors. It typically features tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce incorporating elements like chili powder, cumin, oregano, and often a touch of sweetness from corn or diced tomatoes. The result is a flavorful and versatile chicken that's perfect for tacos, salads, burritos, or simply served over rice or quinoa.
Why Use a Crock Pot for Santa Fe Chicken?
The beauty of a crock pot lies in its ability to create incredibly tender and flavorful chicken with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the spices to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a succulent dish that’s practically melt-in-your-mouth. You simply add the ingredients, set it, and forget it – leaving you free to tackle other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself.
Santa Fe Chicken Crock Pot Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe uses readily available ingredients and yields enough for 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, for a richer flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): For enhanced flavor, lightly sear the chicken breasts in olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the seared (or unseared) chicken, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes and green chilies, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to your slow cooker.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve as desired.
What to Serve with Santa Fe Chicken?
The versatility of Santa Fe chicken makes it a perfect base for a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Tacos: Serve the chicken in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and lettuce.
- Burritos: Wrap the chicken in large flour tortillas with rice, beans, and other fillings.
- Salads: Add the shredded chicken to a fresh salad with mixed greens, black beans, corn, avocado, and a light vinaigrette.
- Rice Bowls: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa with your favorite sides.
How Long Does Santa Fe Chicken Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftover Santa Fe chicken will last for 3-4 days.
Can I Freeze Santa Fe Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Santa Fe chicken for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Can I Make Santa Fe Chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Sear the chicken (optional), then add all ingredients to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Shred the chicken and serve.
This Santa Fe chicken crock pot recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and convenient meal option for any occasion. Enjoy!
