Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Canned Ingredients
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained
- 1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained
Spices and Toppings
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup Mexican cheese blend
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and position the oven rack in the middle.
- Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make 4 thinner cutlets. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onions to the same skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the drained Ro-tel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and smoked paprika. Cook for a couple of minutes until heated through, scrapping up any browned bits from the pan to enhance flavor.
- Combine Chicken and Veggies: Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, nestling them into the vegetable mixture. Spoon some of the tomatoes, beans, and corn mixture over each piece of chicken.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately for a warm, cheesy, and flavorful dish.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet such as cast iron for best results.
- Adjust chili powder and smoked paprika quantities to your preferred spice level.
- Fresh cilantro adds brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- For gluten-free variation, verify all canned products do not contain gluten additives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American