Irresistible chicken enchilada skillet has become my absolute go-to for those evenings when time is tight but flavor is a must. I remember the first time I whipped this up – the aroma of spices and simmering sauce filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal without the fuss of rolling enchiladas. It’s truly an easy chicken enchilada skillet that delivers big on taste. This simple, one-pan dish is perfect for a quick chicken enchilada skillet dinner that the whole family will devour. Let’s get this deliciousness cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Chicken Enchilada Skillet

You are going to absolutely adore this recipe! It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights and always a crowd-pleaser:

• It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a perfect easy chicken enchilada skillet option.
• The one-pan chicken enchilada skillet method means minimal cleanup, which is always a win.
• Packed with classic enchilada flavors that are deeply satisfying.
• Uses simple, readily available ingredients you likely already have.
• It’s wonderfully versatile – easily customizable with your favorite toppings.
• The combination of tender chicken, savory sauce, and melted cheese is simply divine.
• This dish is a fantastic way to get a hearty, delicious meal on the table fast.

Ingredients for Your Irresistible Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Gathering the ingredients for this flavorful dish is a breeze! You’ll find that most of these are pantry staples, making it an excellent choice for a spontaneous weeknight meal. For this cheesy chicken enchilada skillet, we’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the chicken
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – ensures tender, flavorful bites
• 1 packet (1 ounce) enchilada seasoning – the flavor powerhouse of this dish
• 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce – the savory base that ties everything together
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained – adds texture and heartiness
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained – for a touch of sweetness and color
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – for its meltability and mild flavor
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – adds a classic sharp cheese taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños – to customize your skillet

How to Make the Best Chicken Enchilada Skillet

1. Step 1: Let’s get started by preheating your oven to a nice 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, grab a large oven-safe skillet. I find cast iron works wonders for this dish.
2. Step 2: Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into your skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the chicken generously with 1 packet (1 ounce) of enchilada seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink in the center and smells amazing.
4. Step 4: Now, stir in 1 can (10 ounces) of red enchilada sauce, 1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, rinsed and drained, and 1 can (15 ounces) of corn, drained. Give it all a good stir to combine everything. This is where the magic starts to happen for your how to make chicken enchilada skillet journey.
5. Step 5: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors meld together for a few minutes. The aroma should be incredible!
6. Step 6: Evenly sprinkle 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and bean mixture. This creates that gooey, cheesy layer that makes this a true skillet chicken enchilada casserole.
7. Step 7: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and let it cook in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes. You’re waiting for that glorious moment when the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle.

Pro Tips for the Best Irresistible Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Want to elevate your skillet game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this dish even more amazing:

• Don’t skip browning the chicken! This adds so much depth of flavor to your dish.
• Use good quality enchilada sauce. It really makes a difference in the final taste.
• For an even richer flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken for a super quick meal.
• Feel free to add sautéed onions or bell peppers with the chicken for extra veggies.

What’s the secret to a perfect Irresistible Chicken Enchilada Skillet?

The real secret to an authentic chicken enchilada skillet lies in building layers of flavor. Browning the chicken well and using a good, robust enchilada sauce are key. Don’t be afraid to season the chicken generously before cooking!

Can I make this Chicken Enchilada Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prep all the ingredients (cook chicken, mix sauce, drain beans/corn) up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Then, just combine and heat when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes in a Chicken Enchilada Skillet?

Avoid overcooking the chicken by cutting it into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Also, don’t over-stir once the cheese is added; give it time to melt and get gooey without getting lost in the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Your Chicken Enchilada Skillet Dinner

This hearty skillet is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines with a few complementary sides. For a classic pairing that highlights the flavors, serve it alongside a simple side salad with a zesty lime dressing, or some fluffy cilantro-lime rice. If you’re looking for something extra satisfying, consider a serving of black beans – you’ve already got them in the skillet, but a separate bowl of seasoned black beans is always welcome. I also love pairing this with a side of seasoned corn, making it a vibrant chicken enchilada skillet with corn and beans. These simple additions round out the meal beautifully! For more ideas on flavorful sides, check out these delicious recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Irresistible Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional goodness in each serving of this delicious skillet meal:

• Calories: approx. 450
• Fat: approx. 20g
• Saturated Fat: approx. 8g
• Protein: approx. 35g
• Carbohydrates: approx. 30g
• Fiber: approx. 7g
• Sugar: approx. 5g
• Sodium: approx. 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can explore resources on nutritional powerhouses.

How to Store and Reheat Your Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Leftovers of this amazing skillet are just as good, making it a perfect simple chicken enchilada skillet meal for meal prepping. Once the dish has cooled slightly, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this skillet freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, I recommend thawing frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Then, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it until heated through. Either way, it’s a delicious and easy meal ready when you are! If you’re looking for other make-ahead meal ideas, consider trying our homemade tomato sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Enchilada Skillet

What is a Chicken Enchilada Skillet?

A chicken enchilada skillet is essentially a deconstructed enchilada, cooked all in one pan! Instead of rolling tortillas, all the delicious ingredients – tender chicken, savory enchilada sauce, beans, corn, and plenty of cheese – are layered and cooked together in a skillet. It’s a simpler, faster way to enjoy those classic enchilada flavors.

Why is chicken enchilada skillet so good?

This dish is so good because it delivers all the comforting, bold flavors of traditional enchiladas with a fraction of the effort. The combination of seasoned chicken, rich enchilada sauce, hearty beans, sweet corn, and gooey melted cheese is incredibly satisfying. It’s a flavorful, easy, and crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Monterey Jack and cheddar are fantastic for their melting qualities and flavor, feel free to experiment. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, and a blend of Mexican cheeses or even some crumbled cotija on top can be delicious. The key is a good melting cheese for that gooey finish.

How can I make it spicier?

For a truly spicy chicken enchilada skillet, you have a few options. Use a hotter variety of enchilada sauce, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the skillet when you add the chicken. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving also works wonders!

Variations of Chicken Enchilada Skillet You Can Try

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t hesitate to get creative! You can easily tailor it to your preferences. For a fantastic spicy chicken enchilada skillet, simply opt for a hotter enchilada sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken as it cooks. If you’re craving something richer, a creamy chicken enchilada skillet can be achieved by stirring in a dollop of sour cream or a bit of cream cheese along with the enchilada sauce. For a healthier twist, swap the chicken for lean ground turkey or even a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu. You can also experiment with different beans, like pinto beans, or add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and texture. For a taste of something different, you might enjoy our mediterranean chickpea salad.

Irresistible Chicken Enchilada Skillet: 10 Minute Magic

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

An irresistible chicken enchilada skillet recipe that is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or any casual gathering. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, savory enchilada sauce, and melted cheese for a comforting and delicious meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 packet (1 ounce) enchilada seasoning
• 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and season with enchilada seasoning. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through.
3. Stir in enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn. Bring to a simmer.
4. Sprinkle Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, with your favorite toppings. This irresistible chicken enchilada skillet is ready to enjoy.

Notes

• For a spicier dish, use hot enchilada sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
• This chicken enchilada skillet is also delicious with added chopped onions or bell peppers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skillet serving
• Calories: approx. 450
• Sugar: approx. 5g
• Sodium: approx. 800mg
• Fat: approx. 20g
• Saturated Fat: approx. 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: approx. 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: approx. 30g
• Fiber: approx. 7g
• Protein: approx. 35g
• Cholesterol: approx. 100mg