Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort dish that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! This Tex-Mex Chili Chicken recipe is a flavor-packed explosion that combines the bold, spicy essence of Southwest cuisine with tender, juicy chicken that practically melts in your mouth. In just 50 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds - and trust us, this isn't your average chicken dinner!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Tex Mex
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 can chili beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken breasts dry with paper towels and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of cooking oil. Sear chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, creating a nice caramelized exterior.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside temporarily. In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes with green chilies and chili beans, stirring to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and gently place seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the bean and tomato mixture.
- Cover skillet and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and allow it to melt completely.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate chicken breasts and spoon additional bean and tomato mixture over the top. Garnish with optional fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear and maximize flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider toasting your chili powder and cumin in the dry skillet for 30 seconds before adding oil.
- Choose high-quality, sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a more intense melting experience.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to help redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite remains incredibly moist and tender.
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or with a side of roasted vegetables.
- Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in tacos, salads, or quesadillas the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
