Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet: 5 Easy Steps to Delight

Hey there, friend! If you’re on the lookout for a quick, healthy, and downright delicious dinner, let me introduce you to my Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer! It’s packed with protein from the chicken and loaded with vibrant veggies, making it both filling and nutritious. I remember the first time I whipped this up after a long day—I wanted something effortless yet satisfying. The smell of the spices mingling with the chicken and beans filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dive in! Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy that perfect meal. You’ll love how easy it is to throw this together on a busy weeknight, and the flavors? Wow! They’ll have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients for your delicious Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet:

  • 1 lb chicken breast: Dice into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • 1 can black beans: Drain and rinse to reduce sodium and enhance flavor.
  • 1 cup corn: You can use frozen or canned—both work beautifully!
  • 1 can diced tomatoes: This adds moisture and a lovely tang.
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce: The star of the show! Choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
  • 1 tsp cumin: For that warm, earthy flavor that enchiladas crave.
  • 1 tsp chili powder: This gives it a little kick—feel free to add more if you like it spicy!
  • 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a Mexican blend, but go with your favorite.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, of course! Seasoning is key.
  • Fresh cilantro: For garnish—this adds a fresh pop of flavor!

How to Prepare Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Alright, let’s get cooking! This Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet comes together in just a few easy steps, so grab your skillet and let’s do this!

  1. First, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center. You want it nice and tender!
  2. Next, toss in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and enchilada sauce. Sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder, and give everything a good stir to combine. The colors are going to be so vibrant!
  3. Let it all simmer together for about 5-7 minutes. This is where the magic happens; the flavors meld beautifully. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Once everything is heated through and deliciously fragrant, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for just a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Ooh, that cheesy goodness!
  5. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. This adds such a bright, fresh touch!

And there you have it! You’re ready to serve this delightful dish. Enjoy your meal with some warm tortillas or over a bed of rice for a complete feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
  • Healthy and nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fiber from the chicken and beans, it’s a wholesome meal.
  • Flavor explosion: The combination of spices and enchilada sauce creates a deliciously bold flavor that everyone will love.
  • One-pan wonder: Easy cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.
  • Customizable: Switch up the veggies or spice level to suit your taste—endless possibilities!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet turns out perfectly, here are some of my favorite tips:

  • Don’t rush the chicken: Make sure it’s cooked through and slightly golden for the best flavor and texture. It really makes a difference!
  • Use fresh spices: If your cumin and chili powder have been hanging around for a while, they might not pack the same punch. Fresh spices elevate the dish!
  • Adjust to your taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of enchilada sauce or spices. Want more heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne!
  • Leftovers are gold: This skillet dish keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch!
  • Check your cheese: You can swap the cheese for a lighter version or leave it out entirely if you want to keep it even healthier!

Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious meal that impresses every time!

Variations

One of the best things about my Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet is how versatile it is! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

  • Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor and texture.
  • Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
  • Make it spicy: If you’re a heat lover, throw in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch!
  • Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or a dairy-free option if you’re looking for alternatives.
  • Try different sauces: Switch the enchilada sauce for salsa verde or even a homemade tomatillo sauce for a refreshing twist.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! The possibilities are endless!

Nutritional Information

Before we dig in, it’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. However, here’s a general breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup) of my Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet:

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Sugar: 5g

This skillet is not only delicious but also a nutritious option for any meal! Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body right!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get:

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen diced chicken works just fine. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding in the other ingredients.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Just swap the chicken for extra beans or add some hearty veggies like mushrooms or lentils for that satisfying texture.

What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?
No worries! You can use salsa or a homemade sauce made with tomatoes and spices as a delicious alternative.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this skillet freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem at all! To store your Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it if you’re like me and have a few things stashed away!

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is super simple. You can pop it in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you prefer the stovetop, just add a splash of water or chicken broth to a skillet and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This will keep it moist and delicious!

Enjoy your tasty enchilada goodness again—trust me, it’s just as delightful the second time around!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet: 5 Easy Steps to Delight

  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Healthy

Description

A quick and healthy chicken enchilada skillet recipe.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the diced chicken over medium heat until no longer pink.
  2. Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, cumin, and chili powder.
  3. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover until melted.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Serve with tortillas or over rice.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Spread the love

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating