Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, yet easy to make? Then look no further! This Chicken with Pepper Jack Cheese recipe is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. This recipe showcases homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a burst of flavor in under 30 minutes. Get ready to enjoy one of the best recipes you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 8 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavor base of our delicious dish.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. This slow simmering process develops a rich and flavorful sauce.
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Melt the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to help it blend smoothly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve hot with rice, tortillas, or your favorite side dish. This easy recipe is a perfect quick dinner idea!
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For milder flavors, reduce the amount of chili powder.
- Use different cheeses: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend.
Variations:
- Add beans: For a heartier meal, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans to the skillet along with the tomatoes.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier sauce.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Chicken with Pepper Jack Cheese recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. It’s a testament to the power of delicious, healthy food recipes that are easy to prepare. Enjoy!