Southwest Cheesy Chicken Skillet Recipe

Spicy Southwest Cheesy Chicken Skillet Delight 🌶️🧀🍗

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful, and quick-to-make main dish, look no further than this Southwest cheesy chicken skillet. Bursting with bold spices, melty cheese, and tender chicken, this spicy main dish is perfect for weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering. This recipe combines the zest of Southwest flavors with the comforting appeal of a cheesy chicken skillet, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and irresistible.

2. Ingredients for your Southwest cheesy chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

3. How to prepare the spicy Southwest cheesy chicken skillet

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This spice blend will give your dish that signature Southwest flavor.

Step 2: Sear the chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables

In the same skillet, add diced bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Toss in corn and black beans, stirring to combine and heat through.

Step 4: Assemble the skillet

Slice the cooked chicken into strips or chunks and return it to the skillet. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, covering the entire dish. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to melt the cheese thoroughly.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Once the cheese has melted, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an added zest. Pair your spicy Southwest cheesy chicken with creamy garlic butter orzo or a side of tortilla chips for the ultimate feast.

4. Storage Tips for Your Spicy Southwest Cheesy Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of lime juice or cheese to refresh the flavors. For longer storage, you can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Cheesy Chicken Skillet

This spicy Southwest cheesy chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over fluffy rice, inside warm tortillas as tacos, or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess and flavor.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?

Absolutely! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu make great substitutes, and can be prepared using similar searing and assembling methods.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe includes cayenne pepper for heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference. Omit or reduce cayenne for a milder flavor.

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation and cooking take approximately 30-35 minutes, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Make mixing cheese and sauces effortlessly with this versatile stand mixer for all your culinary needs.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Quickly cook or crisp up ingredients to elevate your dish.
• Ninja Mega Kitchen Power System – Blend and prepare sauces or smoothies with ease for added flavor complexity.

8. Related Recipes to Elevate Your Culinary Experience

• Creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta
• Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Southwest cheesy chicken skillet. With its perfect balance of spice, cheese, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner or a presented meal, this spicy chicken main dish is an all-around winner. Don’t forget to customize the spice level and serve with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!

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