Name: Chicken Enchilada Skillet (20 min meal)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon olive oil (for sautéing vegetables); 1 large yellow onion (diced); 1 each bell pepper (any color, diced); 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup frozen corn; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 8 ounces cooked chicken (shredded or diced); 1 10-ounce can enchilada sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; to taste cilantro (for garnish)

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and satisfying dinner that bursts with flavor, look no further than this Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Perfectly cooked chicken mingles with vibrant veggies, black beans, and a zesty enchilada sauce to create a one-pan dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or an impromptu gathering.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The Chicken Enchilada Skillet is a favorite among home cooks for a multitude of reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, making it perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a homemade meal. Second, the flavor profile is rich and comforting, drawing inspiration from traditional enchiladas without the fuss of rolling tortillas. Lastly, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this mouthwatering Chicken Enchilada Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 teaspoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding healthy fats.
1 large yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
1 bell pepper (any color), diced: Adds sweetness and crunch to the dish.
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: A protein-packed addition that complements the flavors.
1 cup frozen corn: Sweet, juicy kernels that enhance the texture.
2 cups cooked brown rice: A wholesome base that makes the dish hearty.
8 ounces cooked chicken (shredded or diced): The star of the show, providing protein and flavor.
1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce: The key ingredient that ties everything together with its rich flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess.
Cilantro for garnish: Freshness that elevates the dish.

Cook’s Kit

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great for easy cleanup.
Spatula: For stirring and mixing the ingredients without scratching your pan.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping your vegetables and chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.

The Method for Chicken Enchilada Skillet (20 min meal)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper has softened.

Step 2: Add the Beans and Corn

Stir in the drained black beans and frozen corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the corn to thaw and the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Incorporate the Rice and Chicken

Next, add the cooked brown rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the rice and chicken are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Pour in the Enchilada Sauce

Pour the enchilada sauce over the mixture, stirring until all the ingredients are coated evenly. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chicken Enchilada Skillet!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodating dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

Quinoa: Swap out brown rice for quinoa for a protein boost.
Ground turkey or beef: Use ground turkey or beef in place of chicken for a different flavor.
Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and double the beans for a filling vegetarian meal.
Vegan cheese: Substitute with vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.

What Could Go Wrong

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

Using uncooked chicken: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the skillet.
Overcooking the vegetables: Keep an eye on the onions and peppers to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Not draining beans: Ensure the black beans are thoroughly drained and rinsed to avoid excess liquid.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Chicken Enchilada Skillet is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to handle leftovers:

You can make the dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If you want to prepare components in advance, you can cook the rice and chicken ahead of time, and chop the vegetables for a quick assembly later.

Quick Q&A

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have fresh corn, just cut it off the cob and add it in when you would add the frozen corn.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free enchilada sauce, this Chicken Enchilada Skillet is gluten-free.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet meal for up to 2 months. Just store it in a freezer-safe container and reheat thoroughly when ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish stands alone, but you can serve it with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a crisp salad for a complete meal!

Explore More

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The Takeaway

The Chicken Enchilada Skillet (20 min meal) is a fantastic dish that combines convenience with flavor and nutrition. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s a meal that fits seamlessly into any busy lifestyle. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a quick dinner for yourself, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. So grab your skillet, and get ready to indulge in a delicious dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!