Name: Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet: An Incredible One-Pan Meal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sour cream (optional for serving); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This Cheesy Baja Chicken & Bell Pepper Skillet is a vibrant, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheddar, it’s both satisfying and easy to make.

A black cast iron pan filled with four golden-brown grilled chicken breasts on top, each sprinkled with fresh green herbs. Underneath and around the chicken, there is a creamy layer of melted cheese mixed with sautéed bell pepper strips in red, yellow, and green colors, adding a vibrant look. The cheese is bubbling and slightly browned at the edges, blending with the colorful peppers and chicken. The pan is placed on a white marbled textured surface, with some fresh thyme sprigs and a gold spoon with more thyme nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream (optional for serving)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season evenly with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 4: Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the peppers begin to soften.
Step 5: Stir in the corn and diced tomatoes. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover with a lid and let the cheese melt completely.
Step 7: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro if using, and serve.
Step 8: Optionally, add a dollop of sour cream on top when serving for a creamy finish.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy cheddar cheese variety.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to give the dish a smoky, spicy flavor.
Use frozen corn for convenience, just be sure to thaw it before adding.
Add black beans for extra protein and fiber.
Serve with warm tortillas or over rice for a more filling meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. To preserve the cheese’s texture, avoid reheating on high heat for too long.

How to Serve

A cast iron skillet filled with cooked meatballs layered with melted yellow cheese, surrounded by sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers, black beans, and tomato sauce, all mixed together with a slightly saucy texture. Two white plates each hold three meatballs on a bed of the same colorful pepper mix and beans, garnished with fresh green cilantro leaves, giving a fresh contrast. A wooden spoon rests inside the skillet, partially covered by the sauce and vegetables. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with small bowls of pepper and salt, a bottle of hot sauce, and a white cloth napkin nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, checking that the chicken is fully cooked.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels of spices and canned ingredients to be certain.