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–+ servings
Baja Chicken Skillet

Bold and Cheesy Baja Chicken Skillet for Flavor Lovers

This Baja Chicken Skillet is a one-pan dish bursting with bold flavors, combining citrus-marinated chicken with sautéed vegetables and melting pepper Jack cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken Marinade
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Lean and juicy, thighs or quarters can be used as substitutes.
  • 1/2 cup Orange Juice Can be substituted with lemon juice.
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice Always use fresh limes for best taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is best for optimal taste.
  • 2 pieces Jalapeños Can omit for milder flavors or replace with bell peppers.
Vegetables
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Yellow & Orange, feel free to use any color.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Shallots can be a great substitute.
Cooking and Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
Topping
  • 1 cup Pepper Jack Cheese Mozzarella or cheddar can be great substitutes.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro A fresh garnish that enhances flavor.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, sliced jalapeños, and salt. Add chicken breasts, cover, and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add jalapeños, bell peppers, and red onion. Sauté for about 8 minutes until soft.
  3. Season the Chicken: Remove chicken from the fridge and let sit. Mix salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Coat each chicken breast with this spice mixture.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Increase the skillet heat to high and add more olive oil. Sear the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Reduce skillet heat to medium, add sautéed vegetables, and sprinkle cheese over the top. Bake in preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 35gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For richer flavor, marinate chicken overnight. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

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