Cowboy Chicken

This Cowboy Chicken recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It combines the savory taste of spiced chicken with a vibrant mix of fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, corn, and green chiles, all topped with melted pepper jack cheese.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Cowboy Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing the chicken.
• Smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper: A blend of spices for a flavorful rub.
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds a smoky and tangy flavor.
• Reduced sodium black beans: Rinsed and drained, provides a hearty texture and protein.
• Mexican-style corn: Drained, adds sweetness and texture.
• Green chiles: Drained, adds a mild heat.
• Shredded pepper jack cheese: Adds a creamy and spicy topping.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped, for garnish.
• Lime: For a fresh citrus finish.

How to Make Cowboy Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and pat them dry.
• Combine the spices in a small bowl.
• Sprinkle half of the spice mixture over the chicken, rubbing to coat.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the chicken for 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for 30 seconds on the other side.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• Add the fire-roasted tomatoes to the skillet, scraping the bottom to loosen any stuck-on bits.
• Simmer for 1 minute, then add black beans, corn, green chiles, and the remaining spice mixture.
• Stir to combine.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

• Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, browned-side up.
• Pour any collected juices over the chicken and spoon the sauce over the top.
• Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, until the chicken reaches 160 degrees F.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil

• Sprinkle pepper jack cheese over the chicken.
• Broil for 1 to 2 minutes, until the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

• Squeeze lime juice over the top and sprinkle with cilantro.
• Serve hot with the corn and black bean sauce.

How to Serve

• As a Main Course: Serve Cowboy Chicken as a complete meal.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
• With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• To Reheat: Rewarm chicken in a baking dish in the oven at 350 degrees F or in the microwave.
• To Freeze: Freeze leftovers in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  • Yes, you can use Monterey Jack for a milder dish or cheddar cheese.
• Can I add other vegetables?
  • Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños.
• Can I adjust the spice level?
  • Yes, you can add more or less chili powder or red pepper flakes.
• Can I use chicken thighs?
  • Yes, chicken thighs can be used, just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

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