Description
Quick & Easy Skillet Taco Chicken is a flavorful, weeknight-friendly recipe featuring tender chicken cutlets seasoned with taco spices, cooked on the stovetop, and topped with melted cheese and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream. This dish brings taco night to your skillet in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you want a delicious and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken cutlets
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 4 tablespoons taco sauce
- 1 cup Mexican/taco blend shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil)
Toppings
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- Black olives
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Coat both sides of the chicken cutlets thoroughly with the taco seasoning until fully covered. This ensures the chicken absorbs the bold flavors of the seasoning during cooking.
- Heat the Skillet: Add the neutral oil to a large skillet and warm over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering and hot to ensure the chicken sears properly.
- Cook the First Side: Place the chicken cutlets in a single layer in the skillet, avoiding overlap or touching. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the chicken for 4 minutes to develop a good sear and cook partially through.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Turn the chicken cutlets over carefully. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 3 minutes to allow the chicken to cook evenly.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon 1 tablespoon of taco sauce onto each chicken cutlet, then evenly distribute 1/4 cup of shredded Mexican/taco blend cheese atop each one. Cover the skillet and cook for 1 more minute, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF and the cheese melts perfectly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to retain juices. Transfer the chicken to plates and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and black olives for fresh flavor and texture to complete your taco chicken meal.
Notes
- Chicken cutlets are thin, boneless pieces of chicken breast perfect for quick cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165ºF.
- Customize your toppings as desired; avocado or jalapeños make great additions.
- If you prefer, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter topping.
- To keep chicken moist, do not overcook and allow resting time after cooking.
