Name: Chicken Enchilada Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon olive oil; ½ large yellow onion (diced); 1 bell pepper (any color, diced); 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup frozen corn; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 8 ounces cooked chicken ((shredded or diced)); 1 10-ounce can enchilada sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ((see note)); cilantro (for garnish)

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Whenever I think about a quick and satisfying meal, the Chicken Enchilada Skillet comes to mind. Imagine coming home after a long day, feeling a bit tired, but still craving something hearty and delicious. This dish is my go-to solution. It combines the vibrant flavors of chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables and the comforting warmth of enchilada sauce. In just a few steps, you can whip up a one-pan wonder that not only tastes incredible but also brings a smile to the table. My family loves how easy it is to prepare and how it offers a burst of flavor in every bite.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon

What Makes This Chicken Enchilada Skillet Special

Fast and Easy Dinner

One of the standout features of the Chicken Enchilada Skillet is its simplicity. You can have a delicious meal ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. No need to slave over a hot stove for hours; everything cooks in one pan!

Flavor Packed

This dish is not just quick; it’s packed with flavors that dance on your palate. The combination of black beans, corn, and cheddar cheese melds beautifully with the spiced enchilada sauce, creating a dish that’s rich in taste.

Healthy Ingredients

Using wholesome ingredients means you can feel good about what you’re serving. The chicken, onions, and bell peppers not only add great taste but also contribute essential nutrients, making this dish a balanced meal.

Customizable

The Chicken Enchilada Skillet is easily customizable, allowing you to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel like adding some extra veggies? Go ahead! Want to try it with cauliflower rice? You can do that too!

Perfect for Leftovers

This dish is ideal for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers. The flavors only get better the next day, so you can enjoy your delicious creation more than once.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Skillet

The ingredients in the Chicken Enchilada Skillet come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role, from the sweetness of the corn to the hearty black beans. This combination not only delights the taste buds but also nourishes the body.

1 teaspoon olive oil: A key ingredient for cooking, it adds flavor and helps in sautéing the vegetables.
½ large yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
1 bell pepper, diced: Brings crunch and color to the skillet.
1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides protein and fiber, making the dish hearty.
1 cup frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
2 cups cooked brown rice: Serves as a filling base, making the meal substantial.
8 ounces cooked chicken, shredded or diced: The star protein of this dish.
1 10-ounce can enchilada sauce: Infuses the dish with a rich, spicy flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and richness.
cilantro for garnish: Freshens up the dish with its vibrant flavor.

How to Cook Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Cooking the Chicken Enchilada Skillet is a breeze. With just a few simple steps, your delicious meal will be ready to serve. Follow along as we take you through the process of creating this flavorful dish.

Add olive oil to a large skillet and heat it to medium high. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly, indicating it’s hot enough for sautéing.
Next, toss in the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook these for around 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often until they become translucent. This step develops the base flavors of your dish.
Once the vegetables are softened, add the black beans, frozen corn, cooked brown rice, and shredded chicken. Stir everything well and allow it to cook for about 2 minutes. The goal here is to combine the flavors.
Now, pour in the enchilada sauce and stir again. Cook until everything is heated through and bubbly, which should take around 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t stick.
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it cook until the cheese is melted, about 3 to 5 minutes. This melty goodness is the finishing touch.
Once the cheese has melted, garnish your dish with fresh cilantro before serving hot. This adds a beautiful color and burst of flavor!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking with Care: Pay attention to the skillet’s heat. Too high, and ingredients may burn; too low, and they’ll take longer to cook.
Ingredient Quality: Fresh ingredients always enhance flavor; opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible.
Texture Matters: Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still have a bit of crunch for a delightful texture.
Flavor Development: Allowing the enchilada sauce to simmer for a few minutes enhances its rich flavors throughout the dish.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add some variety to your Chicken Enchilada Skillet, here are a few ideas to mix things up! Each option adds a unique twist and keeps the dish exciting.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the flavors.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to portion it out in freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: Serve with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal experience.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or additional vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the dish while cooking to turn up the heat!
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill if you want to change things up.

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking. The melted cheese and warm ingredients are comforting.
Garnish Well: Don’t forget to add fresh cilantro on top for an aromatic touch.
Accompanying Sides: Pair it with a fresh green salad or a side of Mexican rice for a heartier meal.
Occasion: Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy night in.
Seasonal Touch: Add seasonal vegetables to make it relevant and vibrant for any time of the year.
Easy Cleanup: Since it’s a one-pan dish, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle!

FAQ

Absolutely! The Chicken Enchilada Skillet can be prepared in advance. Just cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Meal prepping this dish makes weeknight dinners even easier!

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad or some crispy tortilla chips for added crunch. You could also complement it with guacamole or sour cream for a richer flavor. The versatility of the Chicken Enchilada Skillet allows it to shine alongside many different side dishes.

The spice level of the Chicken Enchilada Skillet can be adjusted to your taste. The enchilada sauce used can vary in heat, so if you’re concerned about spice, you can choose a mild version. Additionally, feel free to add fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy more heat in your meals!

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily swap this out for other proteins. Ground turkey or even tofu can be great alternatives. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that works wonderfully too. The Chicken Enchilada Skillet is very flexible with protein choices.

Conclusion

The Chicken Enchilada Skillet is truly a fantastic dish that combines convenience with flavor. It’s a meal that can bring everyone together around the table, creating wonderful family memories. I encourage you to give it a try whether you’re feeding the family or having friends over; it’s sure to impress. Enjoy this delicious creation and savor every bite!