- October 3, 2024
Keto Mexican Cheesy Chicken Skillet
The Story Behind the Recipe
The Keto Mexican Cheesy Chicken Skillet is a dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the simplicity and convenience of a one-pan meal. The inspiration for this dish came from the desire to enjoy the bold and comforting tastes of a classic Mexican meal — think sizzling fajitas, rich enchiladas, or creamy quesadillas — but without the carbs from tortillas, rice, or beans.
Imagine a busy weeknight when time is short, but you still crave something hearty and flavorful. This skillet meal answers that call with tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and onions, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a touch of spice. It’s a quick, satisfying dish that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
This recipe captures the essence of what makes Mexican food so beloved: the combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and layers of flavor. The simplicity of cooking everything in one skillet not only makes cleanup easy but also allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes.
Things to Consider
- Quality of Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner option, or go for bone-in pieces if you prefer a richer flavor. Cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of spice to your taste. Jalapeños, chili powder, or cayenne pepper can add heat, while bell peppers provide a milder flavor.
- Cheese Choice: Opt for cheeses that melt well, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it often contains anti-caking agents.
- Cooking Fat: Use healthy fats like olive oil, avocado oil, or butter for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
Tips and Tricks
- Pre-Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking to infuse the meat with flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables Separately: Cook the peppers and onions separately before adding them to the chicken to maintain their texture and avoid overcooking.
- Simmer in the Sauce: Allow the chicken to simmer in the cheese sauce for a few minutes to fully absorb the flavors.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh garnishes like cilantro, avocado slices, or lime wedges add a bright contrast to the richness of the dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)