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Author: SophieBennet
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Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet

Introduction

Did you know that a well-balanced, flavorful meal can be prepared in under 30 minutes? If you’re looking for a dish that combines delicious flavors and simplicity, the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet is the perfect solution! This easy-to-follow recipe not only delights your taste buds with its cheesy goodness but also allows you to whip up a satisfying dinner in no time.

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Ingredients List

To create a delicious Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Substitutions: You can use ground turkey or tofu as a protein alternative, and any color of bell pepper will work!

Timing

This delightful recipe can be prepared in an impressive 30 minutes, which is 30% less time than the average dinner recipe! Here’s the breakdown:

  • Preparation time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender, and fragrant aromas fill your kitchen.

Cheesy Baja Chicken upscaled 68a8b1c666a58

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle taco seasoning over cooked chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything cook together for another 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt to gooey perfection.

Nutritional Information

This delectable dish packs a nutritious punch! Here’s a breakdown of the typical serving:

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fiber: 2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to lighten your Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet? Here are some options:

  • Low-fat cheese: Swap regular cheddar for reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.
  • Chicken breast alternatives: Try using skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture without excess fat.
  • Vegetarian option: Use black beans or chickpeas in place of chicken for a fiber-rich alternative.
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Serving Suggestions

This versatile skillet dish is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with:

  • Warm tortillas or rice for a complete meal.
  • Fresh avocado slices for added creaminess.
  • A side salad featuring your favorite greens and vinaigrette.

Dress it up with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the chicken: Ensure chicken pieces are cooked through but not dry; they should be tender.
  • Not seasoning adequately: Taste your dish as you go, adjusting seasoning to your preference to enhance flavors.
  • Using too much cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can overwhelm the dish—balance is key!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maximize freshness and flavor:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • If prepping ingredients ahead of time, store chopped veggies separately to keep them fresh.
  • Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated evenly throughout.

Conclusion

In summary, the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments section! Subscribe for more delicious recipes and culinary tips!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Cook the chicken and veggies, then store them separately in the fridge. Combine and add cheese when you’re ready to eat.

How can I make it spicier?

If you enjoy spicy dishes, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use spicy taco seasoning for a kick!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Using frozen chicken is possible, but you’ll need to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and safe food handling.

What can I serve this with if avoiding carbs?

For a low-carb meal, serve the skillet over leafy greens or cauliflower rice. Both options are nutritious and complement the flavors beautifully.

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Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet

Irresistible Cheesy Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe


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  • Author: sophiebennet
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Savor the irresistible Cheesy Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet recipe Quick delicious and perfect for busy nights Get ready to indulge


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Substitutions: Ground turkey or tofu can be used as protein alternatives, and any color of bell pepper will work!

  • Instructions

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  • Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook together for another 3-4 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • minutes: 5
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Category: Dinner
    • Method: Skillet
    • Cuisine: Mexican

    Nutrition

    • Calories: 350 calories
    • Sugar: 1 gram
    • Fat: 20 grams
    • Saturated Fat: 20 grams
    • Carbohydrates: 9 grams
    • Fiber: 2 grams
    • Protein: 32 grams

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    Sophie Bennett

    I’m the home cook, dessert lover, and heart behind TasteDiary. My love for Korean sweets started in my grandmother’s kitchen—my Halmoni—in Jeonju, South Korea. She wasn’t a professional chef, but to me, every dish she made was filled with magic and meaning.

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