This Southwest Chicken & Cheese dish transforms simple chicken breasts into a hearty, flavorful meal. The chicken is pan-seared until tender and topped with a savory mixture of sautéed onions, earthy mushrooms, and spicy Anaheim and red jalapeño chilies. A slice of melted provolone cheese crowns each portion, adding a creamy richness that balances the heat of the peppers. It is a quick, satisfying option for weeknight dinners or a light lunch. The combination of smoky chilies, tender chicken, and gooey cheese creates a comforting Tex-Mex inspired experience that is easy to prepare with standard pantry ingredients.
Southwest Chicken & Cheese
Description
This Southwest Chicken & Cheese dish transforms simple chicken breasts into a hearty, flavorful meal. The chicken is pan-seared until tender and topped with a savory mixture of saut&# 195;©ed onions, earthy mushrooms, and spicy Anaheim and red jalapeño chilies. A slice of melted provolone cheese crowns each portion, adding a creamy richness that balances the heat of the peppers. It is a quick, satisfying option for weeknight dinners or a light lunch. The combination of smoky chilies, tender chicken, and gooey cheese creates a comforting Tex-Mex inspired experience that is easy to prepare with standard pantry ingredients.Ingredients
Directions
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Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness, approximately 1.5 lbs total.
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Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
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Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
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Add diced onion, sliced mushrooms, and chopped chilies to the skillet.
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Cover and cook until vegetables are softened, stirring occasionally.
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Remove the vegetable mixture from the heat and set aside, keeping any juices in the pan.
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In a large skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken breasts to the large skillet and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until white, tender, and semi-browned.
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Spoon the onion and chili mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.
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Cover the skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes, until juices bubble and chicken is cooked through.
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Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each chicken breast.
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Cover the skillet again and cook for about 1 minute, until the cheese is fully melted.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 289.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10.5g17%
- Saturated Fat 4.8g24%
- Cholesterol 101.1mg34%
- Sodium 136.0mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 12.7g5%
- Dietary Fiber 3.9g16%
- Sugars 7.4g
- Protein 38.2g77%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Chili Variation: Use any combination of red and green chilies, hot or mild, to suit your own taste preference, but try to use both colors for visual appeal.
Cheese Substitution: While provolone is recommended for its mild flavor and melting properties, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Pepper Jack for a sharper taste.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Preparation Tip: Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness to guarantee uniform cooking.
