Cheesy Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe
Introduction
This Cheesy Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and vibrant bell peppers come together with melted cheese and spices for a comforting, one-pan meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet.
- Step 3: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and peppers. Stir gently to combine.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken and peppers. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Serve hot, directly from the skillet, optionally with warm tortillas or rice.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a colorful presentation and varied sweetness.
- Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option with a richer flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh, bright finish.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the cheese melty.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack melt well and complement the flavors nicely.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is mild and can be adjusted by adding more chili powder or including chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
PrintCheesy Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe
A quick and savory Cheesy Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet combining tender chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese with a flavorful blend of spices, perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Spices
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and slice the bell peppers into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the Chicken and Peppers: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the peppers are tender, about 5 more minutes.
- Add Spices and Cheese: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and peppers. Stir well to combine the spices. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve Hot: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the cheesy Baja chicken and bell pepper mixture hot, either on its own or with a side of rice or tortillas if desired.
Notes
- Use any color bell peppers according to your preference or availability.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Serve with warm tortillas or over cooked rice for a more filling meal.
- For a low-carb option, skip the side and enjoy directly from the skillet.
Keywords: Cheesy Baja Chicken, Bell Pepper Skillet, Mexican Chicken Recipe, Easy Weeknight Dinner, One Pan Meal, Spicy Chicken Skillet
