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Tex Mex Chicken Skillet

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Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder for Meal Prepping

Tex-Mex cuisine is a delightful fusion of Texan and Mexican culinary traditions, bringing bold flavors and vibrant colors to the table. Among the many beloved dishes, the Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet stands out as a convenient, delicious, and wholesome meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, beans, corn, and a medley of spices, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a balanced and nutritious meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating a mouthwatering Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet, providing helpful tips and answering common questions along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping, making your week a lot easier and healthier.

Ingredients

Dry Rub

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon each)

Chicken Skillet Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts (about 1-1/2 lbs), cut in half lengthwise if very thick
  • 1 Tbsp olive or avocado oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 (14 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups frozen organic corn, rinsed
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 (10 oz) can green chilies with juice
  • Juice and zest of 1 organic lime
  • 2 tsps smoked paprika
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar Jack cheese blend
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, to garnish
  • Lime wedges, to serve

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken and Dry Rub

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Create the Dry Rub: In a small container, whisk together the garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts really well with your dry seasoning mix on all sides.

Cooking the Chicken

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive or avocado oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden-brown. Set aside and cover to keep warm.

Preparing the Vegetables and Beans

  1. Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté until they soften, about 4 minutes.
  2. Add the Rest of the Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with juice, green chilies with juice, lime juice, lime zest, and smoked paprika. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for a couple of minutes.

Combining and Baking

  1. Season and Combine: Season the mixture with a pinch of sea salt and pepper, then return the chicken back to the pan, nestling it into the sauce.
  2. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar Jack cheese over the top.
  3. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until bubbly and the chicken is fully cooked through.
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Garnishing and Serving

  1. Garnish: Once baked, garnish the skillet with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
  2. Serve: This dish pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or cooked brown rice if desired.

Meal Prepping

  1. Divide and Store: Divide your chicken mixture equally into 4 separate air-tight containers. Add 1/2 cup of cooked cauliflower rice to each serving. Cover with lids and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Tips for the Perfect Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet

  1. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet.
  2. Cheese Choices: While Cheddar Jack is recommended, feel free to use any meltable cheese you have on hand, such as mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend.
  3. Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
  4. Fresh vs. Canned: While canned tomatoes and chilies are convenient, using fresh tomatoes and freshly chopped green chilies can add an extra layer of freshness to the dish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They are often juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check this.

Can I freeze the Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet?

Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as Mexican rice, a fresh garden salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips with salsa.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or additional beans and vegetables. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet ready in no time. It’s perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you have a tasty and healthy option available throughout the week. Enjoy!

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