Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? My Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet is your answer! This one-pan meal combines juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and gooey cheese, all simmered in flavorful enchilada sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it takes just a short time to prepare and cook. Let me guide you through this simple recipe that satisfies your cravings and keeps cleanup easy. You won’t want to miss this!
Ingredients
Cooking Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet is simple and fun. Here’s what you need:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Avocado slices for serving (optional)
Each ingredient adds its own special touch. The chicken provides protein, while the beans and corn add texture. The spices bring warmth and flavor. Fresh cilantro and avocado slices finish the dish perfectly.Enjoy cooking this easy and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Quick Overview of Prep and Cooking
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Servings: 4
Detailed Cooking Instructions
Heating the Oil
First, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This step is key as it helps cook the chicken evenly and adds flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
Next, add 1 pound of cubed chicken to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. The chicken should no longer be pink. Stir it occasionally to ensure it cooks well.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, add 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these for another 3 to 4 minutes. The goal is to soften the vegetables and make them fragrant.
Mixing in Beans and Corn
After the veggies are soft, stir in 1 can of drained black beans, 1 cup of corn, and 1 can of enchilada sauce. Mix everything together well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend nicely.
Adding the Cheese
Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for an extra 2 to 3 minutes. The cheese should melt and become bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
For garnishing, you can add fresh cilantro on top. Slices of avocado also make a great side. Enjoy this tasty one-pan meal with your family!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Best Results
– Ensuring Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform cubes. This helps them cook evenly. Stir well during cooking to prevent any pieces from browning too much. A good stir every few minutes ensures that all sides get heat.
– Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, use mild enchilada sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cumin and paprika. For more spice, add jalapeños or chili powder. Always taste as you go!
Time-Saving Tips
– Prepping Ingredients in Advance: Chop onions, garlic, and bell peppers the night before. Store them in the fridge. This makes cooking faster and easier on busy weeknights.
– Using Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the skillet. This cuts down on cooking time and still gives great flavor.
How to Make it More Flavorful
– Using Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. Chop it finely and mix it in just before serving. You can also use fresh parsley or green onions for a different taste.
– Adding Extra Spices: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. A dash of oregano or chili flakes can also enhance the flavor. Experiment to find your favorite spice mix.Enjoy your cooking journey!
Variations
Vegetarian Option
– Substituting Chicken with Tofu
Swap chicken for firm tofu. Press it to remove moisture. Cut it into cubes. Sauté the tofu just like the chicken. This gives a great texture and flavor.
– Adding More Vegetables
You can add more veggies for a healthy boost. Try zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and add them when you sauté the onion and garlic.
Different Flavor Profiles
– Using Different Sauces
Change the taste by using different sauces. Try salsa verde or mole sauce instead of enchilada sauce. Each sauce gives a unique twist to the dish.
– Alternative Cheese Choices
Switch up the cheese for a different flavor. Use pepper jack for spice or queso fresco for a milder taste. Mixing different cheeses can also create a tasty blend.
Cooking Methods
– Oven-Baked Version
To bake it, start by cooking the chicken and veggies in a skillet. Then, transfer them to a baking dish. Top with cheese and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. This gives a nice golden top.
– Slow Cooker Instructions
For a slow cooker, add all the ingredients except cheese. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add cheese in the last 15 minutes. This method makes for a hands-free meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge soon after it cools. This helps it stay tasty and safe to eat. Your leftovers will last for about 3 to 4 days.
Reheating Tips
When you want to eat your leftovers, you can use a microwave or stovetop. The microwave is quick but may not keep the same texture. If you want the best taste, heat it on the stovetop. Just warm it gently over low heat while stirring.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save your dish for later, freezing works well. First, let it cool completely. Then, place the skillet meal in a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s sealed tight to avoid freezer burn. To use it later, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Common Questions About Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it first. This allows for even cooking. If you cook it from frozen, it may take longer to cook through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the enchilada skillet early in the day. Store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
How can I customize the spice level?
You can add more spices for heat. Consider using chili powder or cayenne pepper. For less heat, reduce the amount of these spices or skip them altogether.
Nutritional Information
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish can be gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free enchilada sauce. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories per serving?
Each serving has about 400 calories. This can vary based on the amount of cheese and toppings you use. Check the exact numbers with your specific ingredients.
Cooking Equipment
What type of skillet is best?
A large, heavy skillet works best. A cast-iron skillet is great for even heat. If you have a non-stick skillet, that works too.
Do I need a lid for cooking?
Yes, using a lid helps the cheese melt evenly. It also keeps the moisture in, making your dish nice and juicy.
This blog post covered making an easy chicken enchilada skillet. We discussed all the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to modify the dish for different tastes and dietary needs. Keep these ideas in mind for your next meal. With simple prep and cooking methods, you can create a tasty dish your family will love. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and perfecting your skillet!
