One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that comes together in just one skillet, look no further than this One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken. With tender chicken breasts, creamy cheese, and zesty green chiles, this dish is a fiesta of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve at a gathering. Ready to dive into this cheesy goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This recipe is a keeper for several reasons. Firstly, it requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one skillet. Secondly, the combination of cream cheese and pepper jack creates a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the smoky poblano peppers and tangy salsa verde. Lastly, it’s versatile—serve it over rice, inside tortillas, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Your Shopping Guide

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source that keeps the dish hearty.
• 2 ounces cream cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
• 4 slices pepper jack cheese: For that melty, spicy kick.
• 2 poblano peppers: Sliced for a mild heat and great flavor.
• 1 yellow onion: Chopped or sliced, it adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: For a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a delightful smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: For cooking the chicken and veggies.
• 1 jar salsa verde: The zesty star of the dish.
• Fresh cilantro and limes: For garnishing and a fresh finish.

Must-Have Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools:

• Skillet: A large skillet works best for this recipe, allowing ample space for the chicken and veggies.
• Spatula: For flipping the chicken and mixing the ingredients.
• Knife and cutting board: To chop the vegetables and slice the chicken as needed.
• Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked through.

Directions: One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the boneless skinless chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder on both sides. Allow the chicken to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped yellow onion and sliced poblano peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Create the Cheesy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until it melts and combines with the residual juices in the pan. Add the salsa verde and stir until well mixed. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy this cheesy delight with your favorite sides!

Make It Fit Your Plan

This One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken can easily be adapted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Low Carb: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of pepper jack cheese or add jalapeños for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure your salsa verde is gluten-free.

Avoid These Traps

When preparing your One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken. Aim for 165°F.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t overlook the seasoning; it’s crucial for flavor.
• Not Letting the Cream Cheese Soften: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Using Low-Quality Salsa Verde: A good salsa verde can make or break this dish, so choose one you love.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you end up with leftovers (which is unlikely since it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Questions People Ask

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While pepper jack adds a nice kick, you can use Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a mix of your favorites.

What can I serve with this dish?

This One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun twist!

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you’re looking for more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or using a spicier salsa verde.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready to eat.

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you enjoyed this One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken, you might love these healthy-ish recipes:

• Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
• Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
• Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto
• Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry

Wrap-Up

In just about 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering dish that the whole family will love. This One Skillet Cheesy Green Chile Chicken is not only easy to make, but it’s also a fantastic option for meal prep, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With its creamy texture and zesty flavor, this dish is sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. Happy cooking!