Description
Fiesta Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts with colorful bell peppers, onions, black beans, corn, and zesty salsa. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, topped with melted cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
Seasonings and Sauce
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dish.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and onions and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to infuse them with bold flavors.
- Brown Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring a nice sear and partial cooking.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Salsa: Stir in the rinsed black beans, corn, and salsa, mixing everything well to combine all ingredients evenly around the chicken.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully transfer the entire mixture from the skillet into a suitable baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture for a cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and juices to redistribute.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
