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Tex Mex Chicken Skillet Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by on March 11, 2025

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Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? This Tex Mex Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish that anyone can make. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal packed with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

For this tasty dish, you need these main ingredients: - 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) These ingredients create a hearty base for your skillet. The chicken adds protein, while the beans and corn bring fiber and sweetness. The bell peppers and onion add color and crunch. Flavor is key in Tex Mex cooking. Here are the spices and seasonings you’ll use: - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste The taco seasoning is a mix of spices that gives the dish its Tex Mex flair. Cumin adds warmth, and smoked paprika gives a nice smoky taste. Salt and pepper help balance all the flavors. To finish your dish, consider these tasty toppings: - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Avocado slices (for serving) Cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the chicken and veggies. Fresh cilantro adds a bright note. Avocado slices provide creaminess and make the meal more filling. Enjoy customizing your plate! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by cubing the chicken breasts. Make sure the pieces are even. This helps them cook well. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes. You want it to turn golden brown and be cooked through. Now, add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté these for 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to soften. This adds flavor and color to your dish. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for about one minute. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen. Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely. Once everything is heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and bubble. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with avocado slices on the side. Enjoy your delicious Tex Mex Chicken Skillet! To cook chicken perfectly, start with even-sized pieces. Cut the chicken breasts into small cubes. This helps them cook evenly. Use medium heat to avoid burning. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink inside. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for best results; it should read 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy and tender. Add fresh lime juice right before serving. This gives a bright, zesty kick. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro. If you want more heat, add diced jalapeños to the skillet. A splash of hot sauce can also add depth. Consider marinating the chicken in taco seasoning overnight. This allows the spices to soak in. You can even use smoked salt for an extra flavor boost. For gluten-free needs, ensure your taco seasoning is certified gluten-free. You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. If you want more plant-based options, swap chicken for tofu or jackfruit. These options work well with the spices and flavors. Always check labels on canned goods to ensure they fit your diet. Don't hesitate to get creative and adjust the recipe to fit your needs! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor of your dish. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and spices according to your heat preference for a personalized kick. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or Monterey jack for a unique twist on flavor. Meal Prep Friendly: This skillet meal can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick reheating during busy weeknights. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for turkey, beef, or shrimp. Ground turkey works well in this dish. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. For beef, choose lean ground beef or strips. Cook it until browned. Shrimp is another great option. Add shrimp in the last few minutes of cooking. This allows them to stay tender and not overcook. For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken. Use extra beans or lentils instead. You can also add more veggies. Try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These add flavor and texture. Use vegetable broth to enhance the taste. You can still enjoy the same spices and cheese for a hearty meal. You can easily change ingredients for a new flavor. Use quinoa or rice instead of beans for a different base. Swap corn for diced zucchini or carrots for sweetness. Change the cheese to pepper jack for some spice. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or oregano instead of cilantro. Each swap can give your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet a unique flair. After enjoying your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet, let it cool down. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It's best to use a glass or BPA-free plastic container. Make sure to seal it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you keep the taste fresh. When you're ready to eat your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until hot. You can also use the microwave. Place your portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. This keeps it warm and tasty. You can freeze Tex Mex Chicken Skillet for later meals. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for a quick and delicious meal. I love serving Tex Mex Chicken Skillet hot. It pairs well with avocado slices. You can also add fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. If you want a complete meal, serve it over rice or with warm tortillas. This dish is colorful and fun, making it great for gatherings. Yes, you can make this dish in advance! Cook the skillet and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This can save you time on busy nights. To spice up your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet, add one or two sliced jalapeños during cooking. You can also use spicy taco seasoning for more heat. Another option is to mix in some hot sauce before serving. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and enjoy the kick! The Tex Mex Chicken Skillet is easy and tasty. We covered the main ingredients, spices, and toppings that add flavor. I shared step-by-step cooking tips to help you prepare this meal. You can adjust it for many diets or swap proteins for variety. Storing leftovers is simple, and you’ll find reheating tips too. With these ideas, you can create a delicious dish every time. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
  3. Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own, with rice, or as a filling for tacos for a fun twist!

Ingredients

Main ingredients for Tex Mex Chicken Skillet

For this tasty dish, you need these main ingredients:

– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

– 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

These ingredients create a hearty base for your skillet. The chicken adds protein, while the beans and corn bring fiber and sweetness. The bell peppers and onion add color and crunch.

Spices and seasonings used

Flavor is key in Tex Mex cooking. Here are the spices and seasonings you’ll use:

– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

The taco seasoning is a mix of spices that gives the dish its Tex Mex flair. Cumin adds warmth, and smoked paprika gives a nice smoky taste. Salt and pepper help balance all the flavors.

Optional toppings and garnishes

To finish your dish, consider these tasty toppings:

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– Avocado slices (for serving)

Cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the chicken and veggies. Fresh cilantro adds a bright note. Avocado slices provide creaminess and make the meal more filling. Enjoy customizing your plate!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of chicken and seasoning

Start by cubing the chicken breasts. Make sure the pieces are even. This helps them cook well. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes. You want it to turn golden brown and be cooked through.

Cooking the vegetables

Now, add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté these for 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to soften. This adds flavor and color to your dish. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for about one minute. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen.

Combining ingredients and finishing touches

Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely. Once everything is heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and bubble. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with avocado slices on the side. Enjoy your delicious Tex Mex Chicken Skillet!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking tips for perfectly cooked chicken

To cook chicken perfectly, start with even-sized pieces. Cut the chicken breasts into small cubes. This helps them cook evenly. Use medium heat to avoid burning. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink inside. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for best results; it should read 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy and tender.

Ways to enhance the flavor

Add fresh lime juice right before serving. This gives a bright, zesty kick. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro. If you want more heat, add diced jalapeños to the skillet. A splash of hot sauce can also add depth. Consider marinating the chicken in taco seasoning overnight. This allows the spices to soak in. You can even use smoked salt for an extra flavor boost.

Adjustments for dietary preferences (gluten-free, dairy-free)

For gluten-free needs, ensure your taco seasoning is certified gluten-free. You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. If you want more plant-based options, swap chicken for tofu or jackfruit. These options work well with the spices and flavors. Always check labels on canned goods to ensure they fit your diet. Don’t hesitate to get creative and adjust the recipe to fit your needs!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor of your dish.
  2. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and spices according to your heat preference for a personalized kick.
  3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or Monterey jack for a unique twist on flavor.
  4. Meal Prep Friendly: This skillet meal can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick reheating during busy weeknights.

Variations

Substituting proteins (turkey, beef, or shrimp)

You can swap chicken for turkey, beef, or shrimp. Ground turkey works well in this dish. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. For beef, choose lean ground beef or strips. Cook it until browned. Shrimp is another great option. Add shrimp in the last few minutes of cooking. This allows them to stay tender and not overcook.

Vegetarian version options

For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken. Use extra beans or lentils instead. You can also add more veggies. Try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These add flavor and texture. Use vegetable broth to enhance the taste. You can still enjoy the same spices and cheese for a hearty meal.

Ingredient swaps for a unique twist

You can easily change ingredients for a new flavor. Use quinoa or rice instead of beans for a different base. Swap corn for diced zucchini or carrots for sweetness. Change the cheese to pepper jack for some spice. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or oregano instead of cilantro. Each swap can give your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet a unique flair.

Storage Info

How to store leftovers properly

After enjoying your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet, let it cool down. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It’s best to use a glass or BPA-free plastic container. Make sure to seal it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you keep the taste fresh.

Reheating instructions

When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until hot. You can also use the microwave. Place your portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. This keeps it warm and tasty.

Freezer-friendly tips

You can freeze Tex Mex Chicken Skillet for later meals. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for a quick and delicious meal.

FAQs

What is the best way to serve Tex Mex Chicken Skillet?

I love serving Tex Mex Chicken Skillet hot. It pairs well with avocado slices. You can also add fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. If you want a complete meal, serve it over rice or with warm tortillas. This dish is colorful and fun, making it great for gatherings.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance! Cook the skillet and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This can save you time on busy nights.

How do I make it spicier?

To spice up your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet, add one or two sliced jalapeños during cooking. You can also use spicy taco seasoning for more heat. Another option is to mix in some hot sauce before serving. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and enjoy the kick!

The Tex Mex Chicken Skillet is easy and tasty. We covered the main ingredients, spices, and toppings that add flavor. I shared step-by-step cooking tips to help you prepare this meal. You can adjust it for many diets or swap proteins for variety. Storing leftovers is simple, and you’ll find reheating tips too.

With these ideas, you can create a delicious dish every time. Enjoy your cooking journe

For this tasty dish, you need these main ingredients: - 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) These ingredients create a hearty base for your skillet. The chicken adds protein, while the beans and corn bring fiber and sweetness. The bell peppers and onion add color and crunch. Flavor is key in Tex Mex cooking. Here are the spices and seasonings you’ll use: - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste The taco seasoning is a mix of spices that gives the dish its Tex Mex flair. Cumin adds warmth, and smoked paprika gives a nice smoky taste. Salt and pepper help balance all the flavors. To finish your dish, consider these tasty toppings: - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Avocado slices (for serving) Cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the chicken and veggies. Fresh cilantro adds a bright note. Avocado slices provide creaminess and make the meal more filling. Enjoy customizing your plate! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by cubing the chicken breasts. Make sure the pieces are even. This helps them cook well. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes. You want it to turn golden brown and be cooked through. Now, add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté these for 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to soften. This adds flavor and color to your dish. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for about one minute. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen. Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely. Once everything is heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and bubble. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with avocado slices on the side. Enjoy your delicious Tex Mex Chicken Skillet! To cook chicken perfectly, start with even-sized pieces. Cut the chicken breasts into small cubes. This helps them cook evenly. Use medium heat to avoid burning. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink inside. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for best results; it should read 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy and tender. Add fresh lime juice right before serving. This gives a bright, zesty kick. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro. If you want more heat, add diced jalapeños to the skillet. A splash of hot sauce can also add depth. Consider marinating the chicken in taco seasoning overnight. This allows the spices to soak in. You can even use smoked salt for an extra flavor boost. For gluten-free needs, ensure your taco seasoning is certified gluten-free. You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. If you want more plant-based options, swap chicken for tofu or jackfruit. These options work well with the spices and flavors. Always check labels on canned goods to ensure they fit your diet. Don't hesitate to get creative and adjust the recipe to fit your needs! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor of your dish. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and spices according to your heat preference for a personalized kick. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or Monterey jack for a unique twist on flavor. Meal Prep Friendly: This skillet meal can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick reheating during busy weeknights. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for turkey, beef, or shrimp. Ground turkey works well in this dish. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. For beef, choose lean ground beef or strips. Cook it until browned. Shrimp is another great option. Add shrimp in the last few minutes of cooking. This allows them to stay tender and not overcook. For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken. Use extra beans or lentils instead. You can also add more veggies. Try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These add flavor and texture. Use vegetable broth to enhance the taste. You can still enjoy the same spices and cheese for a hearty meal. You can easily change ingredients for a new flavor. Use quinoa or rice instead of beans for a different base. Swap corn for diced zucchini or carrots for sweetness. Change the cheese to pepper jack for some spice. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or oregano instead of cilantro. Each swap can give your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet a unique flair. After enjoying your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet, let it cool down. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It's best to use a glass or BPA-free plastic container. Make sure to seal it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you keep the taste fresh. When you're ready to eat your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until hot. You can also use the microwave. Place your portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. This keeps it warm and tasty. You can freeze Tex Mex Chicken Skillet for later meals. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for a quick and delicious meal. I love serving Tex Mex Chicken Skillet hot. It pairs well with avocado slices. You can also add fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. If you want a complete meal, serve it over rice or with warm tortillas. This dish is colorful and fun, making it great for gatherings. Yes, you can make this dish in advance! Cook the skillet and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This can save you time on busy nights. To spice up your Tex Mex Chicken Skillet, add one or two sliced jalapeños during cooking. You can also use spicy taco seasoning for more heat. Another option is to mix in some hot sauce before serving. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and enjoy the kick! The Tex Mex Chicken Skillet is easy and tasty. We covered the main ingredients, spices, and toppings that add flavor. I shared step-by-step cooking tips to help you prepare this meal. You can adjust it for many diets or swap proteins for variety. Storing leftovers is simple, and you’ll find reheating tips too. With these ideas, you can create a delicious dish every time. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Tex Mex Chicken Skillet

A flavorful one-pan dish featuring chicken, beans, and vegetables, topped with melted cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • to taste fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • to serve avocado slices

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the cubed chicken breasts to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
  • Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with avocado slices on the side.

Notes

Serve with avocado slices for added creaminess.
Keyword chicken, one-pan meal, skillet, Tex-Mex

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