Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

One pan 30 minute Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It combines tender chicken, vibrant zucchini, and zesty spices, all in one skillet. The melted cheese on top makes it irresistible! You can serve it alone or pair it with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from prep to table, making it a perfect choice for busy nights.
• One Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in just one skillet.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices, black beans, and fresh veggies creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is, over rice, or in wraps for a delightful twist.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this dish is nutritious and low in carbs.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking the Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large (12 inch) deep skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Deep Skillet: This tool allows you to cook all ingredients at once without crowding the pan.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Protein

• 1 lb boneless & skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 pieces)

Vegetables

• 2 large zucchini (diced)
• 2 medium bell peppers (chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 large garlic cloves (minced)

Pantry Items

• 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
• 14 oz can low sodium black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 14 oz can low sodium diced tomatoes (not drained)
• 1 tsp store bought or homemade taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp cumin (divided)
• 1 tsp salt
• Ground black pepper (to taste)

Toppings

• 1 cup Tex Mex or Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup green onions (chopped)
• 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

Preheat your large deep skillet over low-medium heat. Swirl in 1 tablespoon of oil to coat the bottom.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

• Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet.
• Sauté for about 3 minutes until the vegetables soften, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet.
• Add the chicken pieces to the other side; sprinkle with cumin, salt, and black pepper.
• Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, zucchini, taco seasoning, and remaining cumin into the skillet.
• Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook on low-medium heat for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 5: Melt Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture.
• Cover again and cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Top your dish with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving. Enjoy it hot on its own or with sides like brown rice or quinoa. For added flavor, consider garnishing with sour cream or crushed tortilla chips!

How to Serve Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Serving your Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe can be as versatile as your imagination. This dish is packed with flavor and pairs well with various sides, toppings, and garnishes. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

On Its Own

• This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, making it a perfect quick dinner option without any sides.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the Tex Mex chicken over Instant Pot brown rice or quinoa for a filling meal. The grains soak up the delicious juices from the dish.

Topped with Fresh Garnishes

• Add some fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced avocado on top for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

In Low Carb Wraps

• Use low carb wraps as a convenient way to enjoy this dish. Just wrap it up and add your favorite toppings for a fun hand-held meal.

As a Taco Filling

• Use the mixture as a flavorful filling in taco shells or tortillas. It’s a fantastic way to make Taco Night extra special!

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve with crushed tortilla chips on the side or sprinkle them on top for added crunch and texture.

How to Perfect Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor and cooked perfectly.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more vibrant.
• Properly Season Your Chicken: Don’t skimp on seasoning your chicken pieces well before cooking; this adds depth to every bite.
• Cook on Medium Heat: Keeping the heat at medium allows the chicken to cook evenly without drying out.
• Cover While Cooking: Covering the skillet while cooking helps retain moisture, ensuring everything cooks through nicely.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Adding chili powder or paprika can give it an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad mixed with lime, cilantro, and cheese that complements the flavors of Tex Mex.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings an avocado richness that balances out the spices in the chicken dish.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice dressed with cilantro and lime juice provides a zesty base that pairs well with this recipe.
4. Black Bean Salad: A simple black bean salad mixed with tomatoes, corn, and avocado adds freshness and fiber.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside fresh salsa make for an easy appetizer that everyone loves.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring a sweet contrast that complements the savory elements of the dish.
7. Simple Green Salad: A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a fresh crunch that balances out richer flavors.
8. Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and acidity, enhancing every bite of the Tex Mex chicken while adding color to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to add enough salt and spices to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the zucchini too long can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to keep it tender-crisp.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned beans or tomatoes may affect flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients for a more delicious dish.
• Not preparing in advance: Failing to chop your ingredients beforehand can slow you down. Prepping everything ahead will save time during cooking.
• Using too much cheese: While cheese adds great flavor, too much can overpower other ingredients. Use just enough for a delightful topping without overshadowing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe:

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option while keeping similar cooking times.

How spicy is this Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe?

The spice level depends on your choice of taco seasoning. You can opt for mild versions or add fresh jalapeños for extra heat.

What can I serve with Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini?

This dish pairs well with brown rice, quinoa, or tortillas. You may also serve it with avocado slices or sour cream for added richness.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

The Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini Recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Enjoy this delightful dish today!