This Easy Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Skillet is a colorful dish packed with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and zesty spices. It’s one-pan magic that brings all the flavors together!
I love how quick this meal is to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights! Just toss everything in the skillet and let the flavors mingle. What’s not to love about easy cleanup? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this skillet. If you prefer, feel free to use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini brings a nice crunch to the dish. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash or even bell peppers for added flavor.
Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika give this dish its Tex-Mex flair. If you’re out of any of these, taco seasoning can be a good substitute. Adjust to your taste!
Cheese: I love using a Mexican cheese blend for richness. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the creaminess.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken properly is key for tenderness. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with heated oil in the skillet before adding chicken. This helps to sear the meat.
- Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and spices. This enhances flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Letting the chicken rest for a minute after cooking helps keep it juicy!
Easy Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Juice of 1 lime
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes total for this recipe. It includes 5-7 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick, delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer before adding anything else!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper if you like a little kick. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Your kitchen should smell amazing!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is fragrant and translucent. This will add a lovely depth of flavor.
4. Add the Zucchini and Bell Pepper:
Now, add the sliced zucchini and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still have a bit of a crunch. Yum!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, giving everything a good stir to combine. Cook for another minute or two to heat everything through.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle your shredded cheese over the top of the chicken and veggies. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt. It should become gooey and delicious!
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, take the skillet off the heat. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro for that fresh flavor. Serve your Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Skillet hot, either on its own or with rice, tortillas, or your favorite Tex Mex sides.
Enjoy your delicious creation! This meal is not only tasty but also packed full of good-for-you ingredients.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any of your favorite vegetables like corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on what you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you love heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper, add sliced jalapeños, or stir in some hot sauce just before serving. Adjust spices to match your personal preference!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can chop the vegetables and chicken in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just cook everything fresh when you’re ready to eat, which will keep it flavorful and vibrant!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
