Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's both quick and easy? Look no further! This Tex-Mex Chicken recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a fun weekend dinner party. It’s bursting with vibrant flavors and is easily customizable to your liking. Get ready to experience a taste of authentic Tex-Mex comfort food, all made from scratch in your own kitchen! This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes that don't require hours of cooking.
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 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Your favorite toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, etc.
Instructions:
-
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (both cans), black beans, Rotel, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
-
Combine and Cook: Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and your favorite toppings. Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Best Tex-Mex Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Variations:
- Add some corn: Toss in a can of drained corn for extra sweetness and texture.
- Use different beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Add some cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy Tex-Mex chicken recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a perfect weeknight dinner solution, offering a healthy and delicious meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the flavors of Mexico right in your own kitchen!