A sizzling sound fills the kitchen, causing my stomach to rumble in anticipation. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made one-pan meal, especially when it’s as vibrant as this Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet. In just 35 minutes, this dish transforms tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and sweet corn into a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The gooey cheddar cheese melts beautifully, making every bite an irresistible delight. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend gathering, this quick preparation ensures that you can impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to whip up a meal that brings warmth and joy? Let’s dive in! Why is this skillet dish a must-try? Simplicity, Making a flavorful meal has never been easier with this one-pan wonder that’s ready in just 35 minutes! Vibrant flavors, The combination of bell peppers, sweet corn, and spices offers a delightful taste experience. Versatile, Whether you want to swap chicken for shrimp or go vegetarian with mushrooms, this recipe accommodates everyone. Mouthwatering cheese, Who can resist the gooey, melty cheddar that brings everything together? Plus, you can easily pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal! If you love quick, comfort food, you’ll also enjoy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cranberry Chicken Savory. Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet Ingredients For the Chicken Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; boneless, skinless makes for easy preparation. Olive Oil – Essential cooking fat; substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point. For the Seasoning Chili Powder – Adds heat and depth; adjust quantity based on your spice preference. Cumin – Provides an earthy flavor; can be omitted for a milder taste. Paprika – Contributes sweetness and color; try smoked paprika for a twist. Salt and Pepper – Basic seasoning; adjust according to your taste. For the Vegetables Red, Yellow, Green Bell Peppers – These colorful veggies bring texture and sweetness; feel free to use any color you prefer. Corn – Adds sweetness and crunch; fresh, frozen, or canned will work. Diced Tomatoes – Introduces moisture and body; canned tomatoes are convenient and quick. For the Topping Cheddar Cheese – Melty and delicious; swap for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for flavor variations. Sour Cream – Adds a creamy touch; Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative. Fresh Cilantro – A fragrant garnish; omit if you don’t like it, or substitute with parsley. This Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to impress anyone around your dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet Step 1: Prepare Chicken Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the pieces generously with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This seasoning will imbue the chicken with rich flavors, setting the foundation for your Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet. Step 2: Heat Skillet In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, signaling it’s ready for cooking. Using a skillet with high sides will help contain all the delicious juices and ingredients of your one-pan meal. Step 3: Sauté Chicken Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on the outside and fully cooked through. Look for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, which ensures it’s safe to enjoy. Step 4: Add Peppers Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. The peppers should start to soften and become tender, creating a colorful medley that complements the chicken. This glorious mixture adds sweetness and crunch—a hallmark of the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet. Step 5: Incorporate Corn and Tomatoes Next, add in 1 cup of corn and a can of diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix everything together well and allow it to cook for another 3-5 minutes. The fresh sweetness of the corn and the tanginess of the tomatoes will elevate your dish, melding beautifully with the other ingredients. Step 6: Mix in Cheese Reduce the heat to low, and sprinkle a good amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully for about 2-3 minutes. Watch as it transforms your Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet into a bubbling, cheesy delight that’s simply irresistible. Step 7: Garnish Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a fragrant finish. The bright green herb enhances both the presentation and flavor of your dish, making it even more appealing and vibrant. Step 8: Serve Finally, scoop portions of the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet onto plates. For a creamy touch, offer sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side. This quick, comforting meal is ready to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table, satisfying everyone in mere moments! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet is an ideal meal prep solution for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the chicken and bell peppers and season them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, mix together the corn and diced tomatoes ahead of time for even quicker assembly. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the traditional cooking steps—sauté the chicken, add the veggies, and top with cheese. This ensures your meal is just as delicious while allowing for quick preparation on those hectic weeknights! Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet Variations Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish!Customize the flavors and textures to create a meal that suits your taste buds perfectly. Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delicious seafood flair. Shrimp cooks quickly, making it a fantastic option that marries well with the other flavors. Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with large portobello mushrooms for a hearty, meatless dish. They absorb flavors beautifully and have a satisfying texture that will please everyone at the table. Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the heat. Layering heat can transform the dish into a fiery sensation that spice lovers will adore. Cheese Variety: Mix up the cheesy goodness by using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack. Both cheeses provide a unique flavor and melt beautifully over the chicken and veggies. Beans for Fiber: Incorporate black beans or pinto beans for added protein and fiber. This swap also lends a creamy texture that contributes to the overall comfort of the dish. Quinoa Base: Serve this skillet over a bed of quinoa instead of rice or bread for a gluten-free, nutrient-packed meal. Quinoa adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra texture. Herb Infusion: Boost the freshness with additional herbs like oregano or thyme. A sprinkle of dried herbs can elevate the flavor profile and bring a garden-fresh taste to this skillet. Adding Crunch: Toss in some tortilla strips before serving to introduce an element of texture. The crunch complements the creaminess of the cheese and adds an extra layer of delight. Each of these variations allows you to tailor your Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet experience! Similarly, if you’ve enjoyed this recipe, you’ll also love the comforting flavors in Skillet Chicken Thighs or the delightful Cream Cheese Chicken. Expert Tips for Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet Even Pieces: Ensure chicken is cut into uniform sizes for even cooking and perfect texture throughout your Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet. Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the skillet while sautéing the chicken; this helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust without steaming. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack to add exciting flavor profiles to your dish. Adjustment for Spice: Adjust the amount of chili powder to cater to your family’s spice preference; start small and increase as needed for a perfect balance. Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh bell peppers for the best texture and taste, but frozen options can work in a pinch if you’re short on time! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet fresh and flavorful. Freezer: If you want to freeze it, portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: For the best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until hot. Tip: Consider adding a splash of broth or water while reheating to maintain moisture and creaminess in the dish. What to Serve with Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet A satisfying meal is just a few sides away from becoming a flavor-packed feast! Fluffy White Rice: The perfect canvas to soak up the savory juices, making every bite even more delightful. Crispy Cornbread: A warm, buttery bite that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheese and the spices in the dish. Garden Salad: Fresh greens and bright vegetables bring a crisp contrast to the hearty skillet, balancing flavors perfectly. Guacamole: Creamy and zesty, this dip adds a refreshing taste that complements the richness of the chicken and cheese. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds a creamy, tangy element that enhances each flavorful bite. Chips and Salsa: For a fun crunch, serve crispy tortilla chips with fresh, zesty salsa as a lively accompaniment. Lime-Margarita: Refreshing and tangy, this drink can elevate your meal, matching the flavors with a cheerful vibe. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: End your dinner on a sweet note—the caramelized fruit pairs beautifully after a savory main course. Embrace these delicious pairings for an unforgettable dining experience around your table! Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are easy to prepare and cook quickly. You can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier option, just ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. How should I store leftovers of the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your delicious dish fresh without losing flavor. If you’re looking to enjoy it later, check out the freezing instructions below! Can I freeze the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet? Absolutely! To freeze, portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 2 months. Ensure the dish is completely cool before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. What can I do if I find the dish too spicy? If you find the dish too spicy, try reducing the amount of chili powder next time. Additionally, you can balance the heat by adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving. They both add creaminess while mellowing the spice! Can I use different vegetables in this recipe? Very! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also add some frozen peas or sweet potatoes for added flavor and texture. This makes the Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet even more versatile! Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions? For those with gluten allergies, this recipe is gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten ingredients. If you have dairy allergies, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to match as flavors may differ! Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet in 35 Minutes This Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and gooey cheddar cheese for a delightful one-pan dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts2 tablespoons olive oil can be replaced with avocado oilFor the Seasoning1 tablespoon chili powder adjust based on spice preference1 teaspoon cumin can be omitted1 teaspoon paprika try smoked paprika for a twistto taste saltto taste pepperFor the Vegetables1 each red bell pepper1 each yellow bell pepper1 each green bell pepper1 cup corn fresh, frozen, or canned1 can diced tomatoes canned is convenientFor the Topping1 cup cheddar cheese can swap for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack1/2 cup sour cream Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative1/4 cup fresh cilantro omit or substitute with parsley Equipment large skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.Stir in the sliced bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes until they soften.Add corn and diced tomatoes. Mix well and cook for another 3-5 minutes.Reduce heat to low, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and cover until melted for 2-3 minutes.Garnish with cilantro if desired, then serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, do not overcrowd the skillet when sautéing the chicken. Adjust the chili powder for spice preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
