Zesty Cheesy Skillet Chipotle Chicken Recipe That Sizzles

Whipping up a mouthwatering cheesy skillet chipotle chicken demands little effort but promises maximum flavor explosion.

Smoky chipotles dance with melted cheese in this one-pan wonder that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this zesty, creamy concoction.

Bold spices and gooey cheese create a symphony of textures that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Every bite packs a punch of smoky heat balanced by rich, melty goodness.

Kitchen magic happens when simple ingredients combine in unexpected ways.

Cheesy Chipotle Chicken Skillet That Brings The Heat

• Tackle Weeknight Dinner Challenges: This skillet chicken recipe solves busy cook's dinnertime stress by delivering a complete meal in one pan with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor punch.
• Customize with Ease: Swap proteins, adjust spice levels, or include different vegetables to match family preferences without compromising the recipe's delicious core structure.
• Quick and Nutritious Meal Solution: Packed with protein, beans, and vegetables, this dish transforms standard chicken into a restaurant-quality meal in under 45 minutes, making healthy eating effortless and enjoyable.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for casual family dinners, game nights, or impromptu gatherings, this cheesy chipotle chicken appeals to diverse taste buds while offering a satisfying, hearty dining experience.

Skillet Mix for Chipotle Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Tender, lean protein that absorbs the rich, spicy flavors of the dish. Look for fresh, high-quality cuts.

• Olive Oil: Provides a smooth base for searing and adds a subtle fruity flavor. Choose extra virgin for best taste.

• Onion, Garlic: Classic flavor base that adds depth and sweetness to the dish. Fresh ingredients provide the best aroma.
• Chipotle Powder, Oregano, Cumin, Salt: Spice blend that creates a smoky, complex Mexican-inspired profile. Use fresh, high-quality spices for maximum impact.

• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances overall savory flavor. Low-sodium options allow better control of salt content.
• Coconut Milk: Provides creamy texture and subtle tropical undertone. Full-fat version creates richer sauce.

• Black Beans, Corn, Hatch Chilies, Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture, nutrition, and southwestern flair. Choose canned or fresh options based on availability.

• Cheddar, Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a golden, creamy surface. Sharp cheddar adds extra flavor punch.

• Cilantro, Green Onions: Fresh herbs that brighten the dish with color and zesty flavor. Chop just before serving.
• Greek Yogurt, Lime: Cooling, tangy accompaniments that balance the spicy, rich skillet. Fresh lime juice is key.
• White Rice: Neutral base that soaks up the delicious sauce. Long-grain rice works best.

Cheesy Skillet Chipotle Chicken Cooking Steps

Step 1: Preheat Cooking Equipment

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to 400°F.

Let the oven warm up completely before starting the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

• Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels
• Sprinkle salt and black pepper over both sides of chicken
• Heat large cast-iron skillet on medium-high temperature
• Add olive oil to skillet
• Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown
• Transfer chicken to a separate plate

Step 3: Create Flavor Base

• Drop diced onions into hot skillet
• Cook onions until soft and translucent
• Stir in spices
• Chipotle powder
• Oregano
• Cumin
• Salt
• Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant

Step 4: Build Sauce Foundation

• Pour chicken broth into skillet
• Scrape bottom of pan to release browned bits
• Add ingredients
• Black beans
• Hatch chilies
• Diced tomatoes
• Coconut milk
• Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Mix corn into sauce
• Return seared chicken to skillet
• Sprinkle cheese blend over top
• Cheddar
• Monterey Jack

Step 6: Finish Cooking

• Slide skillet into preheated oven
• Bake for 5-10 minutes until cheese melts
• Switch oven to broil
• Broil for 1-2 minutes until cheese turns golden and bubbly

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

• Top with fresh herbs
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Serve over white rice
• Add side of Greek yogurt
• Squeeze fresh lime juice on top

Chipotle Chicken Skillet Tips That Hit

• Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking and tender results.
• Adjust chipotle powder amount to match your heat tolerance, ensuring a personalized flavor profile.
• Replace cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives for lactose-intolerant diners.
• Add black beans or shredded rotisserie chicken to increase protein content and create a heartier meal.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for better heat distribution and enhanced flavor development during searing and baking.

Reviving Skillet Chipotle Chicken With Full Flavor

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled chicken to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Properly stored, the dish can last up to 2-3 months without losing flavor or texture.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly.
• Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.

Rich Matches For Chipotle Chicken

• Pair Spicy Zesty Margaritas: Craft a tangy, refreshing margarita with tequila, fresh lime juice, and a touch of chipotle powder to mirror the dish's spicy profile.
• Complement with Fresh Lime Slaw: Prepare a crisp, citrusy coleslaw with shredded cabbage, lime juice, and a hint of jalapeño to balance the rich, cheesy chicken.
• Serve Alongside Cilantro-Lime Rice: Create fluffy white rice infused with fresh cilantro and lime zest to enhance the skillet's vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Match with Cool Avocado Crema: Blend smooth avocado, Greek yogurt, and a splash of lime to provide a creamy, cooling counterpoint to the spicy, cheesy chicken.

Chipotle Chicken Skillet Styles

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Replace white rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version that reduces carbohydrates and adds extra vegetable nutrition.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or black bean crumbles, maintaining the rich chipotle flavor while creating a plant-based alternative.
• Dairy-Free Cheese Option: Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew cheese to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan dietary needs.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Confirm all ingredients are certified gluten-free and serve with quinoa instead of rice to ensure safe consumption for those with gluten sensitivities.

FAQs

• What gives this dish its signature spicy flavor?

The chipotle powder and hatch chilies provide a deep, smoky heat that makes this chicken dish uniquely zesty and flavorful.

• Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes, reduce the chipotle powder amount or use a milder chili powder. You can also remove the seeds from the hatch chilies to decrease the heat level.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth and canned ingredients are certified gluten-free to maintain dietary restrictions.

• Do I need any special cooking equipment?

You’ll need an oven-safe skillet, which allows you to sear on the stovetop and finish cooking in the oven without changing pans.

Cheesy Skillet Chipotle Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling skillet chipotle chicken brings fiery Mexican-inspired flavors directly to your dinner table. Melted cheese, smoky chipotle peppers, and tender chicken create a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut in half lengthwise

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small/medium yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounces) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (4 ounces) can hatch chilies
• 1 (14.5 ounces) can petite diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup sweet corn
• 3 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Serving Suggestions:

• Sliced green onion
• Chopped cilantro
• White rice
• Greek yogurt
• Lime wedges

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Instructions

1. Ignite the oven to a robust 400°F (200°C), preparing for a culinary adventure.
2. Select a capacious oven-compatible skillet and elevate to medium-high temperature. Massage chicken breasts with olive oil, then liberally season with salt and pepper. Sear each side until a rich golden crust emerges, approximately 4-5 minutes per surface. Transfer chicken temporarily from the pan.
3. Introduce diced onions to the skillet, caramelizing until translucent and tender. Sprinkle chipotle powder, oregano, cumin, and salt, allowing spices to bloom and release their aromatic essence. Incorporate minced garlic, stirring briefly to prevent burning.
4. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, capturing those concentrated flavor remnants clinging to the skillet’s surface. Integrate black beans, hatch chilies, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk, creating a vibrant, complex sauce. Simmer gently, allowing ingredients to meld and intensify.
5. Fold corn into the sauce, then carefully nestle seared chicken pieces back into the liquid landscape. Generously shower cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese across the surface.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven, allowing cheese to melt completely. Transition to broiler for a brief moment, achieving a golden, bubbling crust.
7. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro and sliced green onions. Serve atop fluffy white rice, accompanied by a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt and a zesty lime wedge.

Notes

• Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing chipotle powder to match personal heat tolerance, ensuring a customized flavor experience.
• Swap chicken breasts with thighs for more tender meat, providing a juicier and more flavorful alternative that maintains the dish’s core profile.
• Use lactose-free cheese or nutritional yeast for dairy-free diets, allowing individuals with dietary restrictions to enjoy this vibrant and hearty meal.
• Create a quick meal prep version by preparing the sauce and chicken ahead of time, then assembling and baking when ready to serve, maximizing convenience without compromising taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 9 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg