Mexican-Style Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet

Name: Mexican-Style Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tsp light olive oil; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; ½ tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp salt; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; ½ cup white onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 cup grape tomatoes, quartered; 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed; 4 oz can green chiles with juice; ⅓ cup medium salsa (or your favorite); Juice of ½ lime; ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded; Freshly chopped cilantro

Flavorful Skillet Delight

Growing up in the vibrant kitchens of Orlando, where sun-soaked days met rich, savory aromas, I discovered that real love brews between ingredients. With my mama pressing warm tortillas and my abuela sprinkling spices that danced through the air, I learned that every meal tells a story. Now, I bring you my treasured recipe for Mexican-Style Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet, a dish as colorful and delightful as the fond memories of my childhood. Each bite is a cozy embrace of flavors, inviting you to savor the essence of home, no matter where you are.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Mexican
Best Season: Year-round

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Flavors: This dish is packed with the vibrant and soothing flavors of zesty lime, smoky cumin, and fresh tomatoes that come together beautifully.
Healthy Ingredients: Featuring lean chicken, nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, and fiber-filled black beans, this skillet meal is a satisfying, wholesome choice.
One-Pan Wonder: With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy the delicious food and good company.
Versatile Meal: Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices, this recipe makes it simple to adapt based on what’s in your pantry.
Quick and Convenient: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic go-to after a long day.

Ingredients List

2 tsp light olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
½ cup white onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 cup grape tomatoes, quartered
15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
4 oz can green chiles with juice
⅓ cup medium salsa (or your favorite)
Juice of ½ lime
½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Freshly chopped cilantro

Ingredient Tips

Chicken: Opt for fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor and juiciness; you can substitute with turkey for a variation.
Sweet Potato: Look for firm, unblemished potatoes; they enhance the dish’s natural sweetness. You can substitute with butternut squash if preferred.
Black Beans: Canned beans are convenient; choose low-sodium varieties for a healthier option.
Spices: Fresh spices pack more flavor; consider grinding your whole spices if you have them.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Place the sweet potato cubes in a microwave-safe dish, add ½ cup of water, and cook for 4 minutes. They should be mostly cooked but not mashable.
Season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and oregano, ensuring even coverage.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Brown the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the sweet potato, black beans, tomatoes, green chiles, lime juice, and salsa. Cook for 3 minutes to warm the mix and allow the flavors to meld.
Remove from heat, top with shredded cheddar, cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt, and serve with freshly chopped cilantro on top.

Pro Secrets for Success

Cut Evenly: When chopping your chicken and vegetables, try to cut them uniformly for even cooking.
Cheese Options: Feel free to swap out cheddar for a Mexican blend or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Stay Flexible: Use seasonal veggies or swap proteins depending on what’s fresh at the market.
Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but can still be snackable if cooled slightly.

Creative Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with diced zucchini or mushrooms for a fulfilling vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa if you want to bring extra heat to the dish.
Taco-Style: Serve the skillet filling in warm tortillas topped with avocado for a delicious taco night.
Casserole Style: Transfer finished ingredients into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.

Perfect Pairings

Drinks: Pair with refreshing lime-infused water or a light, fruity iced tea for a delightful contrast.
Sides: Complement with a side of Mexican street corn or a fresh avocado salad for added crunch.
Desserts: Finish with flan or churros to create a lively Mexican-themed dinner.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

Prepare the sweet potatoes and season the chicken ahead of time for a hassle-free evening. To freeze, simply allow the dish to cool completely and store it in an airtight container for up to three months. For reheating, allow it to defrost overnight in the fridge before heating on the stovetop until warmed through.

Serving Ideas

For an impressive presentation, serve the skillet in the pan or transfer to a colorful serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of cilantro and lime wedges on the side for added flair.

Kitchen Wisdom

Knife Skills: Invest in a good chef’s knife for effortless chopping and enhanced cooking safety.
Flavor Enhancer: Consider throwing in a bay leaf during cooking for a more aromatic base flavor.
Mind Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the skillet; overcooked chicken can become dry. Remove it just as it’s cooked through.
Taste Test: Don’t forget to taste along the way! Adjust your seasoning to make it uniquely yours.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, the stovetop works best for preserving texture—simply warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed for even cooking; allow extra time if cooking from frozen.
What can I substitute for black beans? Pinto beans or lentils are excellent alternatives that will still keep the dish hearty.
Can I add more veggies? Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can elevate the skillet with additional flavors and textures.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients listed are gluten-free; just double-check your salsa!
How can I make it dairy-free? Omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Does it freeze well? Yes, this dish freezes excellently; just be sure to cool completely before saving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 50g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 12g
Sugar: 5g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a nutritionist for precise information.

Personal Note

Every recipe has its roots, often tied to cherished moments spent in the kitchen surrounded by love. This Mexican-Style Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet is a homage to my heritage, filled with spices and warmth. I hope it brings joy to your table just as it did to mine, creating new stories with every bite.

From My Kitchen to Yours

I encourage you to try this Mexican-Style Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet! Share your culinary creations on Pinterest and let your loved ones experience the joy of vibrant flavors. Happy cooking!