Why Make This Recipe

The Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet is a delectable, vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Baja cuisine into your home kitchen. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying combination of chicken, colorful bell peppers, and melty cheese. Its simplicity not only saves on cleanup time but also allows for easy customization based on what you have on hand. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s sure to please the whole family!

How to Make Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet

Creating the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet is a straightforward process. Here’s how to whip up this delicious meal:

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream (optional for serving)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Sauté the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to cook evenly.
Add the Peppers: Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Incorporate Corn and Tomatoes: Stir in the corn and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Mix in the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, and sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid until the cheese melts.
Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Serve: Spoon the cheesy mixture onto plates and add a dollop of sour cream if you like.

These steps will guide you to create a bistro-quality meal right in your kitchen.

How to Serve Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet

This dish is perfect served over rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious flavors. It can also be enjoyed in warm tortillas for a fun twist, making a hearty burrito. Pair it with a side salad or some tortilla chips for crunch, and don’t forget to add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess!

How to Store Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. The dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just be sure to separate individual portions for easy defrosting.

Tips to Make Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
If you like extra cheese, sprinkle some more on before serving or mix in creamy cheese such as pepper jack for a different taste.

Variation

Swap out the chicken for shrimp or beef for a different protein option. You can also replace the bell peppers with other vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, based on your preference. For a vegetarian version, use black beans or chickpeas in place of chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking time.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time, store it in the fridge, then cook and melt the cheese when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I add spices to customize the flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like oregano, garlic powder, or even taco seasoning to suit your taste preferences.