Zesty Southwestern Chicken Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Zesty Southwestern Chicken Skillet. Packed with bold flavors from chili powder and cumin, tender chicken breasts are simmered in a zesty salsa and Dijon mustard sauce. Topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and fresh green onions or cilantro, this dish brings a delightful taste of the Southwest to your table. Perfect for a quick, one-pan meal that the whole family will love.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
chili powder
1 teaspoon (none)
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 small (pounded to an even thickness)
olive oil
2 teaspoons (none)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
prepared salsa
1/2 cup (none)
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (none)
Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup (shredded)
green onions or cilantro
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zesty Southwestern Chicken Skillet?
It is a quick, one-pan weeknight meal featuring chicken breasts seasoned with chili powder and cumin, simmered in a tangy salsa and Dijon mustard sauce.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This is a quick-meal recipe designed for easy dinner prep, typically taking about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish.
What ingredients do I need for the seasoning?
You will need chili powder, ground cumin, and salt to season the chicken.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Why should I pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that all pieces cook uniformly and stay tender.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level depends on the prepared salsa you choose; use mild salsa for a family-friendly version or hot salsa for more kick.
What type of cheese is best for this skillet?
Monterey Jack cheese is recommended for its excellent melting properties and mild flavor.
Can I substitute the Monterey Jack cheese?
Yes, Pepper Jack, Cheddar, or a Mexican blend cheese would also work well.
What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in this recipe?
Dijon mustard adds a zesty tang and depth to the salsa-based sauce.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, this is a one-pan dish which makes cleanup very easy.
What can I serve with Southwestern Chicken?
It pairs perfectly with rice, cauliflower rice, warm tortillas, or a side salad.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your salsa and Dijon mustard labels for hidden gluten.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or black beans make great additions to this Southwestern dish.
What garnishes should I use?
Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro are recommended for a fresh finish.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh is preferred for garnishing, but you can use a smaller amount of dried cilantro if fresh is unavailable.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses 4 small chicken breasts, making it ideal for 4 servings.
Can I freeze this meal?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce, but it is best to add fresh cheese and garnish after reheating.
What kind of oil should I use?
Olive oil is recommended for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if needed.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, the recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for keto or low-carb diets.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the Monterey Jack cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of salsa?
Salsa is preferred for its spices and consistency, but you can use diced tomatoes if you add extra seasoning.
What type of skillet should I use?
A non-stick or cast-iron skillet both work well for this recipe.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the combination of chicken, mild salsa, and melted cheese is generally very popular with children.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure you use a large enough skillet to avoid overcrowding the chicken.
Can I use this chicken for tacos?
Yes, you can slice the finished chicken into strips and use it as a flavorful taco filling.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, let the salsa simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid before adding the cheese.