Tex Mex Chicken Skillet

This Tex Mex Chicken Skillet is a delightful fusion of flavors showcasing the vibrant and bold taste of Tex Mex cuisine. It's a perfect one-pan meal that's both hearty and easy to make. The recipe combines juicy chicken with the richness of mozzarella cheese and the wholesome goodness of corn, beans, and vegetables. The spices add the right kick, while the melted cheese ties all the flavors together. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering with friends. The blend of aromas from the cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper elevates the dish to a whole new level. It's a family-friendly recipe that's sure to become a household favorite. Not only is it delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients. Plus, you can easily customize it to cater to different preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

400 g chicken breast fillets
100 g mozzarella cheese
280 g canned corn
250 g canned red kidney beans
400 g tomato purée
1 red bell pepper
1 zucchini
1 onion
1 tbsp oil

Spices and Seasonings:

2 cloves garlic
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper powder
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preparing your vegetables: dice the onion and bell pepper, finely chop the garlic, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into quarters, then slice each quarter.
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it softens.
Once the onion becomes translucent, add the chopped garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for a few more minutes until it begins to soften.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the chicken pieces to the other side.
Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes until it's no longer pink.
Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika powder, and cayenne pepper over the chicken. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, and mix everything together.
Add the sliced zucchini and continue to sauté for another few minutes, ensuring all ingredients blend well.
Drain and rinse the canned corn and beans. Add them to the skillet and stir well to combine.
Pour in the tomato purée, gently stirring everything together. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer for 7-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove the lid and evenly distribute the grated mozzarella cheese over the top.
Cover again and let simmer for a few more minutes until the cheese has melted.
For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle chopped coriander leaves and finely chopped fresh chili peppers on top before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy the delicious Tex Mex flair!

Tips

Substitutions: Swap chicken for tofu or black beans for a vegetarian version.
Enhancements: Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra tanginess.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.

Nutrition

Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
Protein: 34 g
Fats: 15 g
Carbs: 42 g

Variations

Low-Carb: Replace corn and beans with more veggies like bell peppers and spinach.
Cheesy Delight: Use a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with warm tortillas or a side of rice.
Garnish with fresh avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.

Best Places

Torchy's Tacos - Known for its innovative take on Tex Mex tacos. Location: 1822 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX, USA.
Taco Joint - A local favorite for hearty Tex Mex dishes. Location: 911 N Peak St, Dallas, TX, USA.
Blue Mesa Grill - Offers a delightful Tex Mex brunch experience. Location: 7700 W Northwest Hwy, Dallas, TX, USA.
Mi Madre’s Restaurant - A cozy spot with delicious Tex Mex brunch options. Location: 2201 Manor Rd, Austin, TX, USA.
El Naranjo - Features authentic flavors with a modern twist. Location: 2717 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX, USA.
La Condesa - Known for its upscale take on Tex Mex. Location: 400A W 2nd St, Austin, TX, USA.
The Esquire Tavern - A historic bar offering Tex Mex bites. Location: 155 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX, USA.
Bodega on Main - Merges Tex Mex with local ingredients. Location: 1014 Madison St, Seattle, WA, USA.
Gabriela’s Downtown - Offers vibrant and tasty Tex Mex dishes. Location: 900 E 7th St, Austin, TX, USA.
Matt’s El Rancho - A family-run legend serving iconic Tex Mex meals. Location: 2613 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX, USA.