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Emmas Dish

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Flavorful Delight

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- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced - 1 onion, sliced - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned) - 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained The chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They soak up all the flavors. I love using fresh bell peppers and onion for a burst of color and taste. Corn adds a sweet crunch while black beans give a hearty texture. - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese - 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies - Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish Olive oil helps with cooking and adds a nice flavor. Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder give warmth and depth. I always use salt and pepper to enhance the dish. For a cheesy finish, Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the top. The diced tomatoes with green chilies add a zesty kick. Finally, fresh cilantro brightens everything up! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the chicken evenly. 2. Prepare the skillet by adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This ensures the chicken won’t stick. 3. Season the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon each of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mix brings out great flavors. 4. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. This locks in moisture. 5. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onion. 6. Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they soften. This step builds a delicious base. 7. Stir in the corn and black beans for 2 more minutes. Mixing adds flavor and texture. 8. Assemble the dish by placing the seared chicken in a baking dish. Top each piece with the vegetable mix. 9. Pour diced tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken and veggies. Make sure everything is covered well. 10. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. This will melt beautifully in the oven. 11. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. This helps steam the chicken. 12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Look for bubbly cheese that is slightly golden. 13. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows flavors to settle. 14. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. It adds a nice touch of freshness. - How to achieve the best sear on chicken: Start with a hot skillet. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the chicken is dry before adding it. This helps it brown better. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. - Ensuring the cheese melts perfectly: Use shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a great melt. Sprinkle it evenly over the chicken. Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. This keeps the moisture in. Remove the foil towards the end. This allows the cheese to get bubbly and golden. - Ideal side dishes to accompany the chicken: Serve this dish with a side of rice or warm tortillas. A fresh salad with avocado and lime adds great flavor. You can also pair it with sautéed zucchini or grilled corn on the cob for a tasty touch. - Recommended beverages to pair: A light beer or a fruity margarita pairs well with this dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a refreshing limeade or iced tea. The zest from these drinks enhances the flavors of the chicken. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and corn can elevate the dish's flavor and texture, making your Mexican Chicken Delight even more delicious. Marinate for Extra Flavor: For a more flavorful chicken, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the spices and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to swap out Monterey Jack cheese with other varieties like Pepper Jack or Cheddar for a different flavor profile. Customize Veggies: Add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to the vegetable mix for added nutrition and flavor. {{image_2}} You can change proteins easily. Turkey works well if you want a lighter option. Tofu is great for a vegetarian twist. Both give a tasty base for the cheese sauce. You can also swap cheeses. Monterey Jack is creamy, but cheddar adds sharpness. Try pepper jack for a spicy kick. Want more heat? Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Just a pinch can make a big difference. You can also mix in new veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can add great flavors. These swaps keep the dish fresh and fun. To keep your Mexican chicken with cheese sauce fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This method helps maintain flavor and texture. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. It will be good for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheating can make or break your dish. The oven is the best choice for reheating. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the moisture in, so the chicken doesn't dry out. Heat for about 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes. Check to make sure it’s heated evenly. Both methods help keep the flavors intact. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first time! How can I make this dish spicier? To add heat, you can use more chili powder. Try adding jalapeños for extra spice. You could also mix in hot sauce. Taste as you go to get the right heat. Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them safely first. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice sear. What are the calorie counts per serving? Each serving has about 400 calories. This may vary based on the cheese and toppings you use. Always check your specific brands for details. Are there low-carb options available? Yes! You can skip the corn and black beans. Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms instead. This keeps the dish tasty and lower in carbs. Gluten-free options This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients, like spices and canned goods, are certified gluten-free. Vegetarian or vegan adaptations For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms. To make it vegan, use plant-based cheese and omit any animal products. You’ll still enjoy great flavor! This article covered how to make a tasty chicken dish using simple ingredients. You learned about the key items needed, how to cook them step by step, and tips for perfect results. We explored variations and ways to store and serve this dish, too. Remember to mix up the flavors and find options that fit your taste. Follow these ideas to create a meal you and your family will enjoy. Happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to spice up dinner? This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a flavorful delight that will wow your taste buds! Packed with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and rich cheese, this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, you’ll impress everyone. Follow my easy steps to create a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Explosion: This dish combines a vibrant mix of spices and fresh ingredients, delivering a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or quick family meals.
  3. Cheesy Goodness: The melted Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy richness that elevates the entire dish to cheesy bliss.
  4. Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein, vegetables, and beans, this meal is not only satisfying but also nutritious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced

– 1 onion, sliced

– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)

– 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

The chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They soak up all the flavors. I love using fresh bell peppers and onion for a burst of color and taste. Corn adds a sweet crunch while black beans give a hearty texture.

Seasoning and Topping Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

– 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies

– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Olive oil helps with cooking and adds a nice flavor. Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder give warmth and depth. I always use salt and pepper to enhance the dish. For a cheesy finish, Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the top. The diced tomatoes with green chilies add a zesty kick. Finally, fresh cilantro brightens everything up!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the chicken evenly.

2. Prepare the skillet by adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This ensures the chicken won’t stick.

3. Season the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon each of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mix brings out great flavors.

Cooking Steps

4. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. This locks in moisture.

5. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onion.

6. Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they soften. This step builds a delicious base.

7. Stir in the corn and black beans for 2 more minutes. Mixing adds flavor and texture.

8. Assemble the dish by placing the seared chicken in a baking dish. Top each piece with the vegetable mix.

9. Pour diced tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken and veggies. Make sure everything is covered well.

10. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. This will melt beautifully in the oven.

Baking Instructions

11. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. This helps steam the chicken.

12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Look for bubbly cheese that is slightly golden.

13. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows flavors to settle.

14. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. It adds a nice touch of freshness.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– How to achieve the best sear on chicken: Start with a hot skillet. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the chicken is dry before adding it. This helps it brown better. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear.

– Ensuring the cheese melts perfectly: Use shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a great melt. Sprinkle it evenly over the chicken. Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. This keeps the moisture in. Remove the foil towards the end. This allows the cheese to get bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

– Ideal side dishes to accompany the chicken: Serve this dish with a side of rice or warm tortillas. A fresh salad with avocado and lime adds great flavor. You can also pair it with sautéed zucchini or grilled corn on the cob for a tasty touch.

– Recommended beverages to pair: A light beer or a fruity margarita pairs well with this dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a refreshing limeade or iced tea. The zest from these drinks enhances the flavors of the chicken.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and corn can elevate the dish’s flavor and texture, making your Mexican Chicken Delight even more delicious.
  2. Marinate for Extra Flavor: For a more flavorful chicken, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the spices and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  3. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to swap out Monterey Jack cheese with other varieties like Pepper Jack or Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
  4. Customize Veggies: Add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to the vegetable mix for added nutrition and flavor.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change proteins easily. Turkey works well if you want a lighter option. Tofu is great for a vegetarian twist. Both give a tasty base for the cheese sauce. You can also swap cheeses. Monterey Jack is creamy, but cheddar adds sharpness. Try pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Flavor Enhancements

Want more heat? Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Just a pinch can make a big difference. You can also mix in new veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can add great flavors. These swaps keep the dish fresh and fun.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Mexican chicken with cheese sauce fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This method helps maintain flavor and texture. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

If you want to save it for longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. It will be good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

Reheating can make or break your dish. The oven is the best choice for reheating. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the moisture in, so the chicken doesn’t dry out. Heat for about 20 minutes.

If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes. Check to make sure it’s heated evenly.

Both methods help keep the flavors intact. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first time!

FAQs

Common Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, you can use more chili powder. Try adding jalapeños for extra spice. You could also mix in hot sauce. Taste as you go to get the right heat.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them safely first. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice sear.

Nutritional Information

What are the calorie counts per serving?

Each serving has about 400 calories. This may vary based on the cheese and toppings you use. Always check your specific brands for details.

Are there low-carb options available?

Yes! You can skip the corn and black beans. Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms instead. This keeps the dish tasty and lower in carbs.

Substitutions and Dietary Restrictions

Gluten-free options

This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients, like spices and canned goods, are certified gluten-free.

Vegetarian or vegan adaptations

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms. To make it vegan, use plant-based cheese and omit any animal products. You’ll still enjoy great flavor!

This article covered how to make a tasty chicken dish using simple ingredients. You learned about the key items needed, how to cook them step by step, and tips for perfect results. We explored variations and ways to store and serve this dish, too. Remember to mix up the flavors and find options that fit your taste. Follow these ideas to create a meal you and your family will enjoy. Happy cookin

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced - 1 onion, sliced - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned) - 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained The chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They soak up all the flavors. I love using fresh bell peppers and onion for a burst of color and taste. Corn adds a sweet crunch while black beans give a hearty texture. - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese - 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies - Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish Olive oil helps with cooking and adds a nice flavor. Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder give warmth and depth. I always use salt and pepper to enhance the dish. For a cheesy finish, Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the top. The diced tomatoes with green chilies add a zesty kick. Finally, fresh cilantro brightens everything up! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the chicken evenly. 2. Prepare the skillet by adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This ensures the chicken won’t stick. 3. Season the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon each of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mix brings out great flavors. 4. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. This locks in moisture. 5. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onion. 6. Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they soften. This step builds a delicious base. 7. Stir in the corn and black beans for 2 more minutes. Mixing adds flavor and texture. 8. Assemble the dish by placing the seared chicken in a baking dish. Top each piece with the vegetable mix. 9. Pour diced tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken and veggies. Make sure everything is covered well. 10. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. This will melt beautifully in the oven. 11. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. This helps steam the chicken. 12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Look for bubbly cheese that is slightly golden. 13. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows flavors to settle. 14. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. It adds a nice touch of freshness. - How to achieve the best sear on chicken: Start with a hot skillet. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the chicken is dry before adding it. This helps it brown better. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. - Ensuring the cheese melts perfectly: Use shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a great melt. Sprinkle it evenly over the chicken. Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. This keeps the moisture in. Remove the foil towards the end. This allows the cheese to get bubbly and golden. - Ideal side dishes to accompany the chicken: Serve this dish with a side of rice or warm tortillas. A fresh salad with avocado and lime adds great flavor. You can also pair it with sautéed zucchini or grilled corn on the cob for a tasty touch. - Recommended beverages to pair: A light beer or a fruity margarita pairs well with this dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a refreshing limeade or iced tea. The zest from these drinks enhances the flavors of the chicken. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and corn can elevate the dish's flavor and texture, making your Mexican Chicken Delight even more delicious. Marinate for Extra Flavor: For a more flavorful chicken, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the spices and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to swap out Monterey Jack cheese with other varieties like Pepper Jack or Cheddar for a different flavor profile. Customize Veggies: Add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to the vegetable mix for added nutrition and flavor. {{image_2}} You can change proteins easily. Turkey works well if you want a lighter option. Tofu is great for a vegetarian twist. Both give a tasty base for the cheese sauce. You can also swap cheeses. Monterey Jack is creamy, but cheddar adds sharpness. Try pepper jack for a spicy kick. Want more heat? Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Just a pinch can make a big difference. You can also mix in new veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can add great flavors. These swaps keep the dish fresh and fun. To keep your Mexican chicken with cheese sauce fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This method helps maintain flavor and texture. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. It will be good for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheating can make or break your dish. The oven is the best choice for reheating. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the moisture in, so the chicken doesn't dry out. Heat for about 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes. Check to make sure it’s heated evenly. Both methods help keep the flavors intact. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first time! How can I make this dish spicier? To add heat, you can use more chili powder. Try adding jalapeños for extra spice. You could also mix in hot sauce. Taste as you go to get the right heat. Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them safely first. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice sear. What are the calorie counts per serving? Each serving has about 400 calories. This may vary based on the cheese and toppings you use. Always check your specific brands for details. Are there low-carb options available? Yes! You can skip the corn and black beans. Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms instead. This keeps the dish tasty and lower in carbs. Gluten-free options This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients, like spices and canned goods, are certified gluten-free. Vegetarian or vegan adaptations For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms. To make it vegan, use plant-based cheese and omit any animal products. You’ll still enjoy great flavor! This article covered how to make a tasty chicken dish using simple ingredients. You learned about the key items needed, how to cook them step by step, and tips for perfect results. We explored variations and ways to store and serve this dish, too. Remember to mix up the flavors and find options that fit your taste. Follow these ideas to create a meal you and your family will enjoy. Happy cooking!

Mexican Chicken Delight with Cheesy Bliss

A flavorful and cheesy chicken dish with vibrant vegetables and spices.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
  • 1 piece onion, sliced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear on each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Stir in the corn and black beans, mixing everything together for an additional 2 minutes.
  • Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish, and generously top each piece with the vegetable mixture.
  • Pour the diced tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring even coverage.
  • Finally, sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  • Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Keyword cheesy, chicken, dinner, easy, Mexican

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