This Easy Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Skillet is a fun, one-pan meal packed with flavor. It’s loaded with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and zesty spices that bring everything together!
Cooking is a breeze with this recipe, and cleanup is quick! I enjoy serving it with warm tortillas or a sprinkle of cheese on top—yum! Just remember, the messier the cooking, the tastier the result! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts bring protein to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute chicken with turkey breast, or for a meat-free version, try using tofu or tempeh!
Zucchini: This veggie adds a lovely texture and absorbs flavors well. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or bell peppers can work perfectly as substitutes.
Black Beans: Canned black beans add protein and fiber. If you’re out of black beans, you can use kidney beans or pinto beans instead. You could even use corn for different flavor and texture!
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder are essential for that Tex Mex flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or skip it altogether.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to avoid dryness. Here are a few tips to ensure it turns out juicy:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
- Cook it over medium-high heat so it browns nicely without drying out.
Be sure to check that the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked. It should be white all the way through without any pink.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables?
Sautéing is quick and helps retain the vegetables’ nutrients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by sautéing the onion first until softened; this builds flavor.
- Add garlic just after the onions; it cooks quickly and can burn if added too soon.
- For veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, aim for a crisp-tender finish. About 5-6 minutes should do, but keep an eye on them!
Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and add a tiny splash of water if they start to stick to the pan.
Easy Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, sliced jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Skillet will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. This includes about 10 minutes for chopping vegetables and 20 minutes for cooking everything together. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is hot and shimmering before proceeding to the next step.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and optional cayenne pepper for some heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. This step is key to building flavor for your veggies!
4. Add the Veggies:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, diced zucchinis, and red bell pepper. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are nice and tender.
5. Mix in Tomatoes and Beans:
Now it’s time to add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and the black beans. Give everything a good stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything well. Let it cook together for an additional 2 minutes to combine all the flavors.
7. Season and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the mixture. Stir to combine. Top with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
8. Serve It Up:
Serve the skillet hot, and feel free to add any optional toppings you love, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or sliced jalapeños. This dish is great on its own but can also be enjoyed with warm tortillas, rice, or your favorite side!
9. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor this easy and delicious Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Skillet. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Make sure to pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture in the skillet!
What Can I Substitute for Black Beans?
If you don’t have black beans on hand, you can easily substitute them with any canned beans like kidney beans or pinto beans. Alternatively, corn can also add a nice sweetness and texture to the dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and vegetables a day ahead. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, follow the same steps to sauté and combine everything. This can save you time on busy nights!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the skillet on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently for even heating.
