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Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet Tasty and Simple Dish

by on February 13, 2025

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Are you ready for a quick, tasty meal? My Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet is here to save your busy nights! With just a few fresh ingredients, this dish bursts with flavor and bright colors. It’s simple to make and perfect for any skill level. Join me as we dive into the steps, tips, and tricks that will make your cooking easy and fun. Let’s get started!

To make Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet, gather these key ingredients: - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced - 1 small red onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) You can add these tasty garnishes to elevate your dish: - ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped - Lime wedges for serving This dish is not just delicious but also quite nutritious. Here’s a quick look at what you get per serving: - Protein from chicken and beans - Fiber from black beans and corn - Vitamins from peppers and tomatoes - Healthy fats from olive oil Each serving packs a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. This meal is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. It nourishes you while keeping the flavors bright and exciting. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the comfort of a wholesome meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one pound of diced, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, one tablespoon of ground cumin, one tablespoon of smoked paprika, and one teaspoon of chili powder. This mix gives the chicken a rich flavor. Cook the chicken for about five to seven minutes or until it turns brown and is fully cooked. Stir it often to cook evenly. Once the chicken is cooked, add one small finely chopped red onion and three minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook these for two to three minutes until the onion becomes clear. This step adds depth to your dish. Next, add two sliced bell peppers: one red and one yellow. Cook these for four to five minutes. You want them to be tender but still slightly crisp. This mix of colors also makes the dish look great. Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add in one cup of corn, one can of rinsed and drained black beans, and one cup of diced tomatoes. Stir everything well and let it heat for about three to four minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning using more salt or pepper if needed. When it’s all warmed through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with half a cup of fresh chopped cilantro. Serve this tasty dish hot with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. When choosing chicken, look for fresh, pink meat. Avoid any chicken with a gray color or strong smell. Check for the label; organic and free-range options are often better. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. They cook evenly and stay juicy. If you can, buy from local farms or trusted stores. Fresh chicken makes a big difference in taste. You can boost the flavor of your Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet with extra spices. Try adding cayenne pepper for heat or oregano for an earthy taste. A splash of lime juice can brighten the dish. If you like it smoky, consider chipotle powder. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Experiment with spices to find your favorite mix. To make your meal more filling, serve the chicken with rice or tortillas. You can also add a side salad with greens and tomatoes. For a crunchy texture, top with avocado or sour cream. Don't forget the lime wedges; they add a nice zing. This dish pairs well with beans or corn on the side. Enjoy it with friends or family for a fun dinner night. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the flavor and makes the chicken more tender. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and tomatoes add vibrant color and flavor. If using canned tomatoes, opt for those with no added salt for better control over seasoning. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred spice level. You can also add jalapeños for an extra kick! Serve with Toppings: Enhance your dish with toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for added creaminess and flavor. {{image_2}} You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. For a lighter version, try using turkey instead of chicken. If you want a vegetarian dish, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. You can also use quinoa or brown rice instead of black beans for a gluten-free option. If you’re watching your carbs, skip the corn and add more peppers. This dish is flexible and tastes great no matter what you choose. You don’t have to stick to the stovetop for this recipe. You can grill the chicken and vegetables for a smoky flavor. Simply marinate the chicken with spices, then grill it until fully cooked. You could also roast everything in the oven. Spread the ingredients on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Both methods add a new twist to this dish. You can make this meal even better with the right sides. Serve it with warm tortillas for a fun taco night. You can also pair it with a simple salad for a fresh crunch. Rice or quinoa make great sides that soak up the flavors. If you want to keep it light, serve with sliced avocado or a scoop of guacamole. The options are endless, so feel free to mix and match! To keep your Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture build-up. Place the container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir it often to heat evenly. You can also microwave it. Place it in a bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid. Heat in 30-second bursts until hot. If you want to freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. The meal can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. Thawing helps the chicken cook evenly. It also keeps the meat juicy. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge. If you’re short on time, run it under cold water. Cook it the same way as fresh chicken. Adjust the cooking time as needed. Frozen chicken might take a bit longer to cook through. To spice things up, add more chili powder. You can also use fresh jalapeños for heat. Chop them finely and mix with the veggies. Another option is to add a dash of hot sauce. Stir it in while cooking for a nice kick. If you like smoky flavors, try adding smoked chipotle powder. This gives extra depth and heat. This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa. They soak up the delicious sauce nicely. You can also serve it with warm tortillas. This lets everyone make their own wraps. For a fresh touch, add a side salad. A simple green salad with lime dressing works great. You might also like to serve it with avocado slices. They add creaminess and balance the spice. This article covered all the key steps to make the Baja Chicken and Pepper Skillet. We looked at the needed ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips for flavor. You can also explore variations to suit your diet. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat them safely. This dish is easy to customize and enjoyable. With these steps, you can create a tasty meal everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices like cumin and smoked paprika adds a delightful depth to the dish.
  3. Colorful and Nutritious: With vibrant bell peppers, corn, and black beans, this skillet is as nutritious as it is beautiful.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices or add your favorite veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

To make Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet, gather these key ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced

– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

– 1 small red onion, finely chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon ground cumin

– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

– 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

Optional Garnishes

You can add these tasty garnishes to elevate your dish:

– ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

– Lime wedges for serving

Nutritional Information Overview

This dish is not just delicious but also quite nutritious. Here’s a quick look at what you get per serving:

– Protein from chicken and beans

– Fiber from black beans and corn

– Vitamins from peppers and tomatoes

– Healthy fats from olive oil

Each serving packs a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. This meal is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. It nourishes you while keeping the flavors bright and exciting. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the comfort of a wholesome meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one pound of diced, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, one tablespoon of ground cumin, one tablespoon of smoked paprika, and one teaspoon of chili powder. This mix gives the chicken a rich flavor. Cook the chicken for about five to seven minutes or until it turns brown and is fully cooked. Stir it often to cook evenly.

Cooking the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add one small finely chopped red onion and three minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook these for two to three minutes until the onion becomes clear. This step adds depth to your dish. Next, add two sliced bell peppers: one red and one yellow. Cook these for four to five minutes. You want them to be tender but still slightly crisp. This mix of colors also makes the dish look great.

Combining Ingredients and Final Touches

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add in one cup of corn, one can of rinsed and drained black beans, and one cup of diced tomatoes. Stir everything well and let it heat for about three to four minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning using more salt or pepper if needed. When it’s all warmed through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with half a cup of fresh chopped cilantro. Serve this tasty dish hot with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.

Tips & Tricks

How to Select the Best Chicken

When choosing chicken, look for fresh, pink meat. Avoid any chicken with a gray color or strong smell. Check for the label; organic and free-range options are often better. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. They cook evenly and stay juicy. If you can, buy from local farms or trusted stores. Fresh chicken makes a big difference in taste.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Spices

You can boost the flavor of your Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet with extra spices. Try adding cayenne pepper for heat or oregano for an earthy taste. A splash of lime juice can brighten the dish. If you like it smoky, consider chipotle powder. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Experiment with spices to find your favorite mix.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

To make your meal more filling, serve the chicken with rice or tortillas. You can also add a side salad with greens and tomatoes. For a crunchy texture, top with avocado or sour cream. Don’t forget the lime wedges; they add a nice zing. This dish pairs well with beans or corn on the side. Enjoy it with friends or family for a fun dinner night.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the flavor and makes the chicken more tender.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and tomatoes add vibrant color and flavor. If using canned tomatoes, opt for those with no added salt for better control over seasoning.
  3. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred spice level. You can also add jalapeños for an extra kick!
  4. Serve with Toppings: Enhance your dish with toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for added creaminess and flavor.

Variations

Substitute Ingredients for Dietary Preferences

You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. For a lighter version, try using turkey instead of chicken. If you want a vegetarian dish, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. You can also use quinoa or brown rice instead of black beans for a gluten-free option. If you’re watching your carbs, skip the corn and add more peppers. This dish is flexible and tastes great no matter what you choose.

Alternative Cooking Methods

You don’t have to stick to the stovetop for this recipe. You can grill the chicken and vegetables for a smoky flavor. Simply marinate the chicken with spices, then grill it until fully cooked. You could also roast everything in the oven. Spread the ingredients on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Both methods add a new twist to this dish.

Serving Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet with Sides

You can make this meal even better with the right sides. Serve it with warm tortillas for a fun taco night. You can also pair it with a simple salad for a fresh crunch. Rice or quinoa make great sides that soak up the flavors. If you want to keep it light, serve with sliced avocado or a scoop of guacamole. The options are endless, so feel free to mix and match!

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To keep your Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture build-up. Place the container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir it often to heat evenly. You can also microwave it. Place it in a bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid. Heat in 30-second bursts until hot.

Freezing for Later Use

If you want to freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. The meal can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. Thawing helps the chicken cook evenly. It also keeps the meat juicy. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge. If you’re short on time, run it under cold water. Cook it the same way as fresh chicken. Adjust the cooking time as needed. Frozen chicken might take a bit longer to cook through.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To spice things up, add more chili powder. You can also use fresh jalapeños for heat. Chop them finely and mix with the veggies. Another option is to add a dash of hot sauce. Stir it in while cooking for a nice kick. If you like smoky flavors, try adding smoked chipotle powder. This gives extra depth and heat.

What can I serve with Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet?

This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa. They soak up the delicious sauce nicely. You can also serve it with warm tortillas. This lets everyone make their own wraps. For a fresh touch, add a side salad. A simple green salad with lime dressing works great. You might also like to serve it with avocado slices. They add creaminess and balance the spice.

This article covered all the key steps to make the Baja Chicken and Pepper Skillet. We looked at the needed ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips for flavor. You can also explore variations to suit your diet. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat them safely. This dish is easy to customize and enjoyable. With these steps, you can create a tasty meal everyone will love. Enjoy your cookin

To make Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet, gather these key ingredients: - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced - 1 small red onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) You can add these tasty garnishes to elevate your dish: - ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped - Lime wedges for serving This dish is not just delicious but also quite nutritious. Here’s a quick look at what you get per serving: - Protein from chicken and beans - Fiber from black beans and corn - Vitamins from peppers and tomatoes - Healthy fats from olive oil Each serving packs a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. This meal is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. It nourishes you while keeping the flavors bright and exciting. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the comfort of a wholesome meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one pound of diced, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, one tablespoon of ground cumin, one tablespoon of smoked paprika, and one teaspoon of chili powder. This mix gives the chicken a rich flavor. Cook the chicken for about five to seven minutes or until it turns brown and is fully cooked. Stir it often to cook evenly. Once the chicken is cooked, add one small finely chopped red onion and three minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook these for two to three minutes until the onion becomes clear. This step adds depth to your dish. Next, add two sliced bell peppers: one red and one yellow. Cook these for four to five minutes. You want them to be tender but still slightly crisp. This mix of colors also makes the dish look great. Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add in one cup of corn, one can of rinsed and drained black beans, and one cup of diced tomatoes. Stir everything well and let it heat for about three to four minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning using more salt or pepper if needed. When it’s all warmed through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with half a cup of fresh chopped cilantro. Serve this tasty dish hot with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. When choosing chicken, look for fresh, pink meat. Avoid any chicken with a gray color or strong smell. Check for the label; organic and free-range options are often better. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. They cook evenly and stay juicy. If you can, buy from local farms or trusted stores. Fresh chicken makes a big difference in taste. You can boost the flavor of your Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet with extra spices. Try adding cayenne pepper for heat or oregano for an earthy taste. A splash of lime juice can brighten the dish. If you like it smoky, consider chipotle powder. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Experiment with spices to find your favorite mix. To make your meal more filling, serve the chicken with rice or tortillas. You can also add a side salad with greens and tomatoes. For a crunchy texture, top with avocado or sour cream. Don't forget the lime wedges; they add a nice zing. This dish pairs well with beans or corn on the side. Enjoy it with friends or family for a fun dinner night. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the flavor and makes the chicken more tender. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and tomatoes add vibrant color and flavor. If using canned tomatoes, opt for those with no added salt for better control over seasoning. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred spice level. You can also add jalapeños for an extra kick! Serve with Toppings: Enhance your dish with toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for added creaminess and flavor. {{image_2}} You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. For a lighter version, try using turkey instead of chicken. If you want a vegetarian dish, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. You can also use quinoa or brown rice instead of black beans for a gluten-free option. If you’re watching your carbs, skip the corn and add more peppers. This dish is flexible and tastes great no matter what you choose. You don’t have to stick to the stovetop for this recipe. You can grill the chicken and vegetables for a smoky flavor. Simply marinate the chicken with spices, then grill it until fully cooked. You could also roast everything in the oven. Spread the ingredients on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Both methods add a new twist to this dish. You can make this meal even better with the right sides. Serve it with warm tortillas for a fun taco night. You can also pair it with a simple salad for a fresh crunch. Rice or quinoa make great sides that soak up the flavors. If you want to keep it light, serve with sliced avocado or a scoop of guacamole. The options are endless, so feel free to mix and match! To keep your Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture build-up. Place the container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir it often to heat evenly. You can also microwave it. Place it in a bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid. Heat in 30-second bursts until hot. If you want to freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. The meal can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. Thawing helps the chicken cook evenly. It also keeps the meat juicy. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge. If you’re short on time, run it under cold water. Cook it the same way as fresh chicken. Adjust the cooking time as needed. Frozen chicken might take a bit longer to cook through. To spice things up, add more chili powder. You can also use fresh jalapeños for heat. Chop them finely and mix with the veggies. Another option is to add a dash of hot sauce. Stir it in while cooking for a nice kick. If you like smoky flavors, try adding smoked chipotle powder. This gives extra depth and heat. This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa. They soak up the delicious sauce nicely. You can also serve it with warm tortillas. This lets everyone make their own wraps. For a fresh touch, add a side salad. A simple green salad with lime dressing works great. You might also like to serve it with avocado slices. They add creaminess and balance the spice. This article covered all the key steps to make the Baja Chicken and Pepper Skillet. We looked at the needed ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips for flavor. You can also explore variations to suit your diet. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat them safely. This dish is easy to customize and enjoyable. With these steps, you can create a tasty meal everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!

Baja Chicken & Pepper Skillet

A flavorful and zesty chicken skillet dish with bell peppers, corn, and black beans.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 unit red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 unit yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • to taste unit salt and pepper
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • to serve unit lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the peppers are tender.
  • Add in the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for an added zesty flavor.

Notes

Serve with lime wedges for extra flavor.
Keyword baja, chicken, pepper, quick meal, skillet

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