Why You’ll Love This Enchilada Chicken Recipe
When you try this Enchilada Chicken recipe, you’ll quickly understand why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen. The flavors are vibrant and satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion.
The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the melted cheese adds that creamy goodness we all crave. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare! I love how it all cooks in one skillet, saving me time on cleanup.
And let’s not forget about the black beans—they add a hearty touch. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be adding this dish to your regular rotation. Enjoy every bite!
Ingredients of Enchilada Chicken
When it comes to whipping up a delicious dinner, having the right ingredients at your fingertips is key. For this Enchilada Chicken recipe, you’ll need a handful of items that not only come together beautifully but also pack a punch of flavor. Trust me, once you gather these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family or friends—maybe even yourself!
Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create this scrumptious dish.
Ingredients for Enchilada Chicken:
- 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons Mrs. Dash Southwest Chipotle seasoning
- Olive oil flavored cooking spray
- 4 tablespoons enchilada sauce
- 1 cup light Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients. First off, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can totally swap out the Monterey Jack cheese for another type, like pepper jack for an extra kick, or even cheddar if that’s your jam.
And if you don’t have black beans on hand, you could use pinto beans or even skip them altogether—though I wouldn’t recommend it because they really do add a nice heartiness to the dish.
As for the chicken, make sure to tenderize it well; it makes a world of difference in how juicy and flavorful your chicken will be.
Oh, and don’t forget to have fun with the seasoning! A little extra sprinkle never hurt anyone, right?
How to Make Enchilada Chicken
Alright, let’s plunge into making this Enchilada Chicken, shall we? First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F. While that’s getting warm, grab your 16 ounces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and give them a little love with a tenderizing beat. Seriously, it’s like giving your chicken a mini spa day—just a few whacks with a meat mallet or rolling pin will do the trick.
Once they’re nice and tender, sprinkle both sides with 2 teaspoons of Mrs. Dash Southwest Chipotle seasoning. This seasoning is like a flavor party for your chicken, so don’t be shy.
Now, let’s get that skillet sizzling! Place a large ovenproof nonstick skillet over high heat. When it’s hot—like, “I-should-have-worn-a-sweater” hot—mist it lightly with your olive oil flavored cooking spray. Carefully lay your seasoned chicken breasts in there, letting them cook for about 2 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown on the outside, which is the perfect precursor to the cheesy goodness that’s about to come.
While the chicken is getting its golden tan, heat up your 15-ounce can of black beans over medium heat on the stovetop. They’ll be a delightful addition to your plate, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good bean?
Once your chicken is looking fabulous, it’s time to dress it up. Remove the skillet from the heat and generously top each chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of enchilada sauce, followed by a sprinkle of one-fourth of the shredded light Monterey Jack cheese—and don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s an essential part of this dish’s charm.
Then, toss on some chopped fresh cilantro for that pop of flavor and color. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 6 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be no longer pink inside and the cheese to be all melted and gooey. Ah, the magic of melted cheese—what a sight!
Finally, serve your beautifully baked chicken over those warm black beans, and there you have it, a delicious Enchilada Chicken dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!
Enchilada Chicken Substitutions & Variations
There are plenty of delicious ways to customize your Enchilada Chicken, so don’t hesitate to get creative! You can swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
If you’re looking for a kick, try using spicy salsa instead of enchilada sauce. For a cheesy twist, add pepper jack cheese or experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or queso fresco.
Want some crunch? Throw in some sautéed bell peppers or corn.
Finally, don’t forget fresh toppings like avocado, sour cream, or diced tomatoes to elevate your dish! Enjoy making it uniquely yours!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Enchilada Chicken turns out perfectly, it’s helpful to keep a few key tips in mind.
First, always tenderize your chicken before seasoning; it helps cook evenly. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is ideal.
If you want extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a couple of hours beforehand. Don’t skimp on the cheese; it adds creaminess!
Finally, let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking; it allows the flavors to meld. Trust me, these small steps can make a big difference in your final result! Enjoy!