Easy Cowboy Skillet Chicken

Saddle up for Easy Cowboy Skillet Chicken, a flavorful, one-pan dish that’s packed with juicy chicken, smoky veggies, and gooey cheese. This simple yet hearty meal combines the bold flavors of Southwestern spices, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or BBQs. The best part? It’s all made in one skillet, reducing cleanup time and delivering maximum flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Cowboy Skillet Chicken is a deliciously easy and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with an assortment of vibrant vegetables, black beans, corn, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Seasoned with a simple yet aromatic spice blend, the chicken is seared to perfection and baked with melted colby jack cheese for an irresistible finish. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying family meal or a quick dinner option, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite toppings like cilantro, jalapenos, and avocado!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 to 8 oz each)
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15 oz) cans of corn, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14 oz) can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 1/4 cup shredded colby jack cheese
• For garnish: cilantro, jalapenos, sour cream, pico de gallo, avocado

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Spice Blend: In a small mixing bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and pepper. Reserve about 1.5 tsp of the spice blend to sprinkle on the vegetables later.
3. Season Chicken: In a large bowl, add the chicken breasts and drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil. Season with the spice blend, making sure each chicken breast is evenly coated.
4. Sear Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil to the skillet. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
5. Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the diced red bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Add Beans and Corn: Add the corn, black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and lime juice to the skillet. Sprinkle in the reserved spice blend and stir to combine. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, on top of the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese over the chicken.
8. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with your desired toppings such as cilantro, jalapenos, sour cream, pico de gallo, and avocado. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Spice it up: Add chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the vegetable mixture for an extra kick.
• Cheese Options: Swap the colby jack cheese for cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and substitute with additional beans, vegetables, or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Add Rice: Serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the skillet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture in advance, then simply bake when ready to serve.

3. Can I use frozen corn and beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen corn and beans. Just thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet.

4. What can I serve with Easy Cowboy Skillet Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a side salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun twist.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped fresh jalapenos, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to increase the spice level.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap the colby jack cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese based on your preference.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat-based ingredients.

8. Can I cook the chicken and vegetables separately?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and vegetables separately if preferred. Simply bake the chicken as usual and cook the veggies in a skillet, then combine before serving.

9. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fire-roasted diced tomatoes?

Yes, regular canned diced tomatoes can be used, though fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.

10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which can be checked with a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

Easy Cowboy Skillet Chicken is the perfect Southwestern-inspired meal that’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying. With minimal prep and cooking time, this one-pan wonder combines everything you love about a hearty dinner – juicy chicken, smoky veggies, and melty cheese. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this dish will become a weeknight favorite in no time! Try it today and enjoy the savory goodness in every bite.

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