Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet Quick and Tasty Dish

October 15, 2025June 6, 2025 by Chef Nate

Ingredients

Detailed List of Ingredients

For the Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet, gather these ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 2 medium bell peppers (red and green), sliced

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– ½ teaspoon oregano

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ¼ teaspoon black pepper

– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

– 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, according to preference)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– Avocado slices (optional, for serving)

– Lime wedges (for serving)

Substitutions for Key Ingredients

If you don’t have some ingredients, here are good swaps:

– Chicken: Try turkey or tofu for a different protein.

– Bell Peppers: Use any color peppers you like.

– Black Beans: Pinto beans or kidney beans work well too.

– Salsa: Use diced tomatoes or a homemade mix.

– Corn: Canned corn can replace fresh or frozen corn.

Nutritional Information

This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown per serving:

– Calories: ~350

– Protein: ~30g

– Carbohydrates: ~40g

– Fiber: ~10g

– Fat: ~10g

This meal gives you protein, fiber, and good fats. It’s balanced and filling, perfect for a quick dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Chicken and Vegetables

First, gather all your ingredients. You will need chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cut the chicken into small pieces. This helps it cook fast and evenly. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. These steps make your dish full of flavor.

Cooking the Skillet Mixture

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it turns clear. Next, add the minced garlic. Cook it for about one minute until it smells great.

Now, add the chicken pieces. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper on top. Stir it all. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is brown and fully cooked.

Add the sliced bell peppers next. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring until they soften. Then, mix in the black beans, corn, and salsa. Stir everything well. Let it all simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend nicely. Don’t forget to taste it! Adjust the seasoning if you need to.

Serving Suggestions

Once done, take it off the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright touch. Serve it in colorful bowls for a fun look. You can add avocado slices on top. A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfectly Cook Chicken in a Skillet

To cook chicken well, start with even pieces. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Heat your skillet before adding oil. Use medium-high heat for a nice sear. Add the chicken to the oil and don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps it from steaming. Cook for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Stir often to avoid burning.

Best Seasoning Combinations

For Baja Chicken, I love using simple spices. Combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This blend gives a fresh and warm taste. You can adjust the amounts based on your spice level. Feel free to add lime juice for brightness. If you like heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or jalapeños.

Ways to Enhance Flavor Profiles

Adding layers of flavor makes your dish pop. Start by sautéing onions and garlic for a strong base. Choose fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime to brighten the dish. Use homemade salsa if you can; it’s often tastier than store-bought. Mix in some corn for sweetness and texture. Finally, serve with avocado slices to add creaminess. These simple tweaks make a big difference!

Variations

Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations

You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan. Instead of chicken, use chickpeas or tofu. Both options add protein and texture. You can replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for extra flavor. Use your favorite spices, like chili powder and cumin, to keep the taste bold.

Gluten-Free Options

This Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet is mostly gluten-free. The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your salsa and any beans do not have gluten. Always check labels when shopping. This way, you can enjoy a safe and tasty meal.

Spicy vs. Mild Versions

You can control the heat level in this dish. For a milder version, use mild salsa. If you enjoy spice, opt for a hot salsa. You can also add fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Test it as you go to find your perfect balance.

Storage Info

How to Properly Store Leftovers

To keep your Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool down before sealing. This step helps prevent moisture buildup. Place the container in the fridge. Your dish will last for 3 to 4 days.

Reheating Tips for Best Taste

When ready to eat, reheat leftovers on the stove. Use medium heat for even warming. Stir often to avoid burning. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. If you use a microwave, heat in 30-second bursts. Stir in between to make sure it warms evenly.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this dish for longer storage. Use a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label and date your container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up on the stove or microwave.

FAQs

What Can I Serve with Baja Chicken Bell Pepper Skillet?

You can serve this dish with rice or tortillas. Both options soak up the flavors well. You might also add a side salad for freshness. Fresh avocado slices and lime wedges brighten the meal.

How Long Will the Skillet Keep in the Fridge?

This skillet will stay fresh for about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it gently on the stove.

Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Recipe?

Yes, you can swap in other veggies. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach work well. Just remember to adjust cooking times. You want your veggies tender but not mushy. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste!

This post covered the key ingredients and cooking steps for a tasty skillet dish. We discussed substitutions, nutrition, and cooking tips. You learned variations for dietary needs and how to store leftovers. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen. Try out these tips and make your skillet meal your own. Enjoy the flavors and share your result