Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken with Taco Seasoning recipe is a delicious and healthy option perfect for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet incredibly versatile dish that the whole family will love. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious alternative to takeout. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a richer flavor.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute more, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This simple step significantly enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. 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 liquid has slightly reduced.
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Add Beans and Corn: Stir in the black beans and corn. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken mixture hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. This dish is fantastic served with rice, tortillas, or your favorite sides.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the skillet along with the taco seasoning.
- Add veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Diced tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This quick and easy chicken with taco seasoning recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are also quick dinner ideas. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy!