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Chicken Enchilada Skillet

This easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet recipe is a one-pan Mexican-inspired dinner packed with tender chicken, melted cheese, and bold enchilada flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 10 oz can enchilada sauce (red or green, your choice)
  • 1 14 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 14 oz can corn kernels, drained
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 small corn tortillas cut into strips
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: sour cream avocado slices, jalapeños, lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Sauté the vegetables
  • Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until it begins to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn. Next, add the diced red and green bell peppers. Continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender but still slightly crisp.
  • Add the chicken and seasonings
  • Stir in the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated in the spices and warmed through. This helps the flavors start blending before adding the sauce.
  • Mix in beans, corn, and enchilada sauce
  • Pour the enchilada sauce into the skillet, followed by the black beans and corn. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined and coated in the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes so the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Add tortilla strips
  • Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips (about 1-inch wide). Stir them into the skillet mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed and lightly coated in the sauce. The tortillas will soften as they absorb the sauce, giving the dish its hearty, casserole-like texture. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until the tortillas are tender.
  • Add the cheese
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and gooey. If you want a golden, bubbly topping, you can place the skillet under the oven broiler for 2–3 minutes instead—just be sure your skillet is oven-safe.
  • Garnish and serve
  • Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for color and freshness. Serve hot straight from the skillet with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime. This one-pan dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Keyword Chicken Enchilada Skillet