Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Name: Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love how this Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet comes together in just one pan, making it a breeze for weeknight dinners. The vibrant flavors of enchilada sauce, tender chicken, and fresh veggies create a satisfying meal that my whole family enjoys. Each bite bursts with spices and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, which adds to the convenience. I know you’ll find it as delicious and easy to make as I do!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-18T15:10:19.255Z

I still remember the first time I made this Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet for my family. It was a busy weekday evening, and I was looking for a quick but satisfying meal. With chicken from the fridge and a few staple ingredients, I was able to whip up a dish that not only tasted amazing but was also visually appealing. The colors of the peppers and enchilada sauce made the dish come alive.

Over time, I tweaked the recipe to include more spices and adjusted the toppings based on personal preferences. I discovered that a sprinkle of lime juice and fresh cilantro at the end elevates the entire dish. Trust me, that little hint of brightness makes a significant difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Customizable with your favorite ingredients
Loaded with flavor and nutrition
Perfect for both weeknights and gatherings

Cooking Techniques and Tips

When sautéing the vegetables for this Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet, aim for a medium heat to avoid burning the garlic. The onion and bell pepper should be cooked until they're just translucent—not brown. This allows their natural sweetness to come out without overwhelming the dish. Keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally, and you’ll achieve that perfect tender base to which all the other flavors can stick.

It’s essential to properly season your chicken before adding it to the skillet. Shredded chicken generally benefits from a sprinkle of additional salt and pepper, especially if it’s been refrigerated. This ensures that each bite is flavorful. It’s also a great opportunity to throw in extra spices like paprika or even a dash of cayenne if you want to amp up the heat.

Customizing Your Skillet

One of the best parts of this Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet is its versatility. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider substituting the black beans for chickpeas or adding more vegetables like zucchini or spinach. These swaps can add different textures and increase nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. You can also use leftover roasted veggies for a more rustic taste.

For cheese lovers, the type of cheese can significantly change the flavor profile. While cheddar is a classic choice, experimenting with pepper jack will add a delightful kick. You may also sprinkle some queso fresco on top for a creamy finish. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, consider using vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious meal!

Ingredients

1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Make sure to have these all on hand for a flavorful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet.

Prepare the Base

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Chicken and Spices

Mix in the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour the enchilada sauce over the mixture and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through.

Cheese It Up

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful meal!

Enjoy your delicious and easy one-pan meal!

Pro Tips

You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the chicken for ground beef or turkey. For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to the point of adding cheese and then refrigerate it for a day. When you are ready to serve, you can directly add cheese and cover it until melted. If you are using fresh corn, blanch it before adding if making ahead to maintain its crunch and sweetness.

To store leftovers, place the skillet mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to help retain moisture, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Easy Chicken Enchilada Skillet with a side of warm tortillas to scoop up all the deliciousness. Depending on your mood, you can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. Offering a variety of toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or sour cream can make this dish even more interactive and fun for family dinners.

For a truly festive feeling, you might consider pairing your skillet with a light salad, perhaps featuring fresh tomatoes, lime dressing, and black olives. This balances the richness of the cheese and enchilada sauce, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use raw chicken?

Yes, you can start with raw chicken; just make sure to cook it fully before adding the other ingredients.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it, then reheat on the stove before serving.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free enchilada sauce and check the labels of other ingredients.