This Easy Tex Mex Chicken & Zucchini Skillet is a fun way to mix chicken and tasty veggies all in one pan! With spices and a hint of cheese, it’s bursting with flavor.
It’s super simple to make, and clean-up? A breeze! I love serving it with some warm tortillas for a complete meal. Who doesn’t enjoy a quick dinner with big tastes? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey cutlets instead. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal!
Zucchini: The star veggie here! Fresh zucchini adds a tender crunch. If zucchini is not available, yellow squash works well too. You could even use bell peppers or mushrooms for a different twist.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder give the dish its Tex-Mex flair. If you’re out, taco seasoning can be a great substitute, just adjust the quantity to your taste. For milder flavor, skip the chili powder or use paprika instead.
Cheese: I use cheddar or a Mexican blend for that melty goodness. If you’re aiming for healthier options, try reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are a few tips to get it just right:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken. A hot pan helps to brown the chicken quickly.
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This helps each piece cook through at the same speed.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as it can lead to steaming instead of browning. If needed, cook in batches.
- Don’t rush the cooking time! Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will keep it juicy!
Easy Tex Mex Chicken & Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish comes together quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at a delicious meal ready in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until it smells amazing. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, toss in the chicken pieces and sprinkle on the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook everything for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden color.
4. Add Zucchini:
It’s time to add the sliced zucchini! Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still has a bit of crunch. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning if you like.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately, with lime wedges and warm tortillas on the side for a complete Tex-Mex experience!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the zucchini for other favorites like bell peppers, corn, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so everything stays crisp and flavorful!
What Can I Substitute for the Chicken?
If you’re looking for a different protein, you can use ground turkey, turkey sausage, or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you want to add some heat, consider using diced jalapeños, adding cayenne pepper, or using a spicier chili powder. Just start with a small amount and increase to your preference!
