Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Mexican Chicken Bake is bursting with vibrant flavors and requires minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both quick and incredibly satisfying. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’ll transport you straight to Mexico!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed for even browning.
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Build the flavor base: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Transfer the chicken and onion mixture to the prepared baking dish. Add the diced tomatoes and green chilies, black beans, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the delicious ingredients.
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Bake to perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.
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Serve and enjoy! Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. This dish is a fantastic example of a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste.
Tips for the Best Mexican Chicken Bake:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with 1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Mexican Chicken Bake is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one delivers on both flavor and convenience. Enjoy!