Cowboy Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that brings together the bold flavors of the Southwest, and that’s exactly what Cowboy Chicken delivers. I remember the first time I tried this delightful recipe at a friend’s barbecue. The aroma of the spices wafting through the air and the sight of that beautifully baked chicken topped with melted cheese was enough to make my mouth water. As I took my first bite, the juicy chicken, the sweet and savory mix of corn, black beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes, all topped off with fresh cilantro, made it clear that this recipe was a keeper. We all gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter, while savoring every bite of that delicious meal.

Essential Ingredients for Cowboy Chicken

The key to making a delicious Cowboy Chicken lies in the quality and combination of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor that make this dish truly special. The standout ingredients include juicy chicken breasts, vibrant vegetables, and a blend of spices that create a mouthwatering experience.

• 4 chicken breasts (about 2 pounds) – Juicy and tender, these will be the star of the dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• 1 tablespoon paprika – Adds a smoky depth and vibrant color to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons cumin – This warm spice brings a wonderful, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• 2 teaspoons oregano – A staple herb that lends a fresh, aromatic quality to the recipe.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the dish with a savory kick without the need for fresh garlic.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the spice blend.
• ½ teaspoon pepper – A basic seasoning that rounds out the flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder – Introduces a hint of heat, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – Necessary for cooking and helps to keep the chicken moist.
• ½ yellow onion, chopped (about 1/3 cup) – Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced – Fresh garlic elevates the flavor with its bold taste.
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained – Sweet and crunchy, it complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained – A great source of protein and fiber, making the dish heartier.
• 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes – Adds acidity and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice – Brightens the dish with acidity and freshness.
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese – Melts beautifully over the chicken, adding creaminess and flavor.
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – A fresh garnish that adds a burst of flavor.

How to Assemble Cowboy Chicken

Assembling Cowboy Chicken is a straightforward process that will have your kitchen filled with delicious aromas. Start by gathering all your ingredients, so you have everything at your fingertips. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delectable dish!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder. This spice blend is the heart of your dish, so make sure it’s well combined. Divide this mixture in half.
3. Rub the chicken breasts with half of the spice mixture. Make sure to coat them evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
4. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the coated chicken breasts and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden brown crust. This step adds a nice depth of flavor.
5. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté it until it becomes tender and translucent, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter if overcooked.
7. Stir in the drained corn, drained black beans, and the fire-roasted tomatoes with their juice, along with the remaining spice blend. Mix everything together and cook for a few minutes until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, placing them right on top of the flavorful mixture.
9. Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese generously over the chicken. The cheese will melt beautifully and create a delicious topping.
10. Finally, bake the skillet in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. When finished, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
11. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. You can enjoy this dish on its own or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations about Cowboy Chicken

There are countless ways to make Cowboy Chicken your own! Here are some variations to consider when preparing this satisfying dish.

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicier flavor or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
• Slow Cooker Version: If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach, you can make this in a slow cooker. Add all ingredients and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
• Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of searing it. This will add a wonderful charred taste.
• Serving Options: Serve this dish over quinoa or in a tortilla for a fun twist. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a light meal.
• One-Pan Meal: Add rice into the skillet along with the other ingredients to create a one-pan meal that cooks together.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

What to Pair With Cowboy Chicken

When it comes to serving Cowboy Chicken, there are plenty of delightful options to consider. The flavors of this dish pair wonderfully with various sides and can be adapted for different occasions.

• Rice: Serve the Cowboy Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a nutritious base that absorbs the delicious juices.
• Salads: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette brightens the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors.
• Refried Beans: For a truly Southwestern experience, pair your chicken with refried beans for a creamy, delicious side.
• Chips and Salsa: Start your meal with some tortilla chips and salsa for a fun appetizer that complements the main dish.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or even game day gatherings. It’s sure to impress your guests!
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables are a fantastic side that adds color and nutrients to your meal.
• Leftover Uses: If you have leftovers, consider repurposing them in tacos or quesadillas for a quick lunch option.

FAQ

Conclusion

Cowboy Chicken is truly a standout dish that combines bold flavors with wholesome ingredients. Its simplicity makes it accessible for everyone, while the taste will impress even the pickiest eaters. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; you won’t regret making it a staple in your dinner rotation!

Cowboy Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Cowboy Chicken is packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Juicy chicken breasts are baked with a savory blend of spices, veggies, and cheese, making it an easy weeknight dinner. Bring this delicious recipe to your table tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Blender
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces chicken breasts about 2 pounds
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• ½ cup yellow onion chopped, about 1/3 cup
• 2 teaspoons garlic minced
• 1 15-ounce can corn drained
• 1 15-ounce can black beans drained
• 1 15-ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.
• In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder. This spice blend is the heart of your dish, so make sure it’s well combined. Divide this mixture in half.
• Rub the chicken breasts with half of the spice mixture. Make sure to coat them evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, add the coated chicken breasts and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden brown crust. This step adds a nice depth of flavor.
• Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté it until it becomes tender and translucent, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
• Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter if overcooked.
• Stir in the drained corn, drained black beans, and the fire-roasted tomatoes with their juice, along with the remaining spice blend. Mix everything together and cook for a few minutes until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
• Remove the skillet from heat and return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, placing them right on top of the flavorful mixture.
• Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese generously over the chicken. The cheese will melt beautifully and create a delicious topping.
• Finally, bake the skillet in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. When finished, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. You can enjoy this dish on its own or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Notes

No extra tips available.

Keyword Cowboy Chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, One Pan Chicken Dinner, Southwestern chicken dish

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.