Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet with Hello Fresh Paste

Tex-Mex Chicken Skillet in just 30 minutes! This easy sautéed chicken dish features Hello Fresh Tex Mex paste, black beans, and corn. Perfect for busy weeknights!

about introduction

when it comes to comfort food with a twist, nothing quite hits the spot like tex - mex cuisine, with roots deeply embedded in both mexican and american culinary traditions, tex - mex has evolved into a vibrant fusion that tantalizes taste buds all over the...

the unique selling point of this recipe lies in its ability to deliver authentic tex - mex flavors without hours spent in the kitchen, thanks to hello fresh's convenient tex mex paste, you can whip up an incredible dinner in just about 30 minutes. not only is it easy on your schedule, but it's also light on your wallet perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings .

the ultimate guide to tex - mex chicken skillet

tex - mex cooking boasts a rich culinary heritage that stems from texas settlers incorporating traditional mexican recipes into their own kitchens, this cultural mash - up has resulted in beloved dishes full of warmth and zest, the fascinating origin story behind tex - mex cuisine reflects centuries of blending cultures and flavors from indigenous peoples using local ingredients to spanish colonizers introducing new spices .

today, this style of cooking enjoys immense popularity across north america and beyond. its colorful presentations and hearty portions have made it a go - to choice for family dinners or festive occasions alike, plus, who doesn’t love some cheesy goodness topped off with fresh cilantro ?

why this recipe will amaze you

get ready for some unique flavor combinations that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. the marriage of zesty lime juice with hello fresh’s spicy tex mex paste creates an explosion of tastes that'll dance across your palate, and let’s not forget those perfectly cooked veggies adding crunch.

what makes this recipe foolproof are its straightforward techniques you don’t need any fancy gadgets here. just one skillet does all the heavy lifting while you savor each step along the way, trust me; even if you’re not an expert cook (like me.), following these steps will lead you straight to success .

time - saving tips ? oh boy do i have them. marinate your chicken ahead when possible or chop veggies during commercial breaks while watching your favorite show multitasking at its finest.

health & nutrition highlights

let’s talk about health because we all want delicious food that feels good too. this recipe packs key nutritional benefits : lean protein from chicken combined with fiber - rich black beans make it satisfying without being overly heavy, plus, fresh veggies contribute vitamins essential for overall wellness .

dietary considerations are easy here; feel free to swap out proteins based on preference tofu works wonders if you're plant - based. and don't worry about guilt trips; balanced nutrition facts show calories around 350 per serving a reasonable indulgence after a long day .

recipe at a glance

so how long do you need ? total preparation time sits comfortably at just 10 minutes , followed by 20 minutes cooking time all wrapped up nicely within half an hour total (which is definitely my kind of meal.) .

as far as skill level goes ? let’s say medium it requires some chopping skills but nothing too daunting even beginners can shine here.

this recipe serves 4 , making it ideal whether you're feeding family or hosting friends over taco night.

and let’s discuss cost efficiency; considering freshness plays such an important role here versus takeout prices it’s basically stealing great taste while saving bucks…what more could we ask ?

in summary : if you're looking for mouthwatering simplicity infused with cultural flair while keeping health top - of - mind the tex - mex chicken skillet featuring hello fresh's vibrant paste is sure going amaze every single time.

premium ingredients guide

when it comes to cooking, using quality ingredients can make all the difference, for our tex - mex chicken skillet, let's dive into some premium core ingredients that will elevate your dish.

premium core ingredients

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts :
  you’ll need about 1 lb (450g) of chicken for this recipe, look for chicken breasts that are firm and have a pinkish hue with minimal fat, avoid any that have a slimy texture or unpleasant odor, if you want to save time, you can purchase pre - marinated options just check the sodium content.

• hello fresh tex mex paste :
  this is the star of the show. use 2 tablespoons for marinating your chicken, when selecting a paste, look for one that's vibrant in color and packed with spices like chili powder and cumin, store it in the fridge after opening but use it within two weeks for peak flavor .

• fresh lime juice :
  you'll squeeze out juice from 1 lime for added zing. choose limes that feel heavy for their size; they tend to be juicier, if you can't find fresh limes, bottled juice works in a pinch just opt for one without preservatives .

• vegetables :
  grab a medium red onion and at least one bell pepper (red or green), select onions that are firm and shiny without blemishes; bell peppers should also be bright with no soft spots, these veggies not only add nutrition but also bring sweetness when sautéed .

storage guidance :

store leftover vegetables in airtight containers in the fridge; they’re best used within three days to maintain freshness .

signature seasoning blend

to really kick things up a notch, let’s chat about creating your own seasoning blend.

• spice combinations :
  besides hello fresh paste, consider adding spices like cumin (for warmth) or smoked paprika (to enhance depth), just half a teaspoon of each will do wonders.

• herb selections :
  fresh cilantro is ideal as a garnish its bright flavor complements tex - mex dishes beautifully. for extra flavor during cooking, try adding dried oregano or thyme .

• flavor enhancers :
  a dash of salt and pepper is essential to balance flavors, use kosher salt if possible; it's coarser than table salt and allows better control over seasoning levels .

• aromatic additions : don't underestimate garlic. two cloves minced before adding them to your skillet can transform ordinary veggies into something special .

smart substitutions

sometimes life happens you run out of an ingredient or just want something different. here are some easy swaps :

• alternative options : swap out chicken breast for shrimp if you're feeling adventurous or even tofu if you're going vegetarian. just remember cooking times vary slightly between proteins .

• dietary swaps : if beans aren’t your thing due to dietary restrictions, lentils work well too they'll add protein while keeping things hearty.

• emergency replacements : no lime ? lemon juice can do in its place… though it's less tart than lime so adjust accordingly by adding more zest if needed.

• seasonal variations : feel free to replace corn kernels with diced zucchini when summer squash is abundant it adds great color along with nutrients too .

kitchen equipment essentials

before diving into cooking mode, make sure you've got these must - have tools ready :

must - have tools

1, large skillet – a good non - stick skillet helps prevent sticking . 1, mixing bowl – perfectly combines everything together. 1, knife set – sharp knives speed up prep time . 1, cutting board – makes chopping easier . . .and protects those counters.

recommended appliances

if you're looking to invest :

1, food processor – ideal if you plan on making larger batches of marinades . 1, instant pot – great option if you’re short on time but still crave delicious meals.

helpful gadgets

consider grabbing kitchen shears they're perfect not just for cutting herbs but also trimming meat quickly without dirtying extra utensils.

home alternatives :

can’t find what i suggested ? no worries. a sturdy saucepan can stand - in as your skillet while mixing bowls could double - up as microwave - safe containers too creativity goes far here folks.

pro ingredient tips

now let’s wrap things up with some pro tips that'll help level up your ingredient game :

selection secrets

when shopping produce at local markets pick items grown locally whenever possible their taste often trumps store - bought options any day.

quality markers

for pantry staples always check expiration dates especially canned goods no one wants spoiled beans ruining their dinner plans . . .

storage solutions

investing in food storage bags makes leftovers last longer while keeping flavors intact thanks largely due air - tight seals protecting against freezer burn too a real lifesaver y’know ?

money - saving tips

buy seasonal produce on sale that's how i snagged my freshest bell peppers recently all while supporting local farmers too it feels good doing right by both wallet & community alike.

so there ya have it a breakdown of premium ingredients that'll take this tex - mex chicken skillet from basic to absolutely fabulous. happy cooking friends.

foolproof cooking steps

cooking can be a joy, especially when you have a clear plan, let’s break down these foolproof steps to ensure your tex - mex chicken skillet comes together beautifully.

essential preparation steps

mise en place details :
before you even think about turning on the stove, let’s gather everything we need, chop 1 medium red onion and dice 1 bell pepper (red or green), mince 2 cloves of garlic and set them aside, don’t forget to rinse and drain the black beans and corn. having everything prepped in advance makes cooking smooth sailing .

prep techniques :
for the chicken, it’s best to cut it into smaller pieces before marinating for quicker cooking, use a sharp knife for clean cuts trust me; it saves time later. squeeze that lime juice fresh; bottled just doesn’t compare .

time management :
set aside about 10 minutes for prep work, while you’re prepping ingredients, let’s mix up the marinade too. this way, while the veggies cook, your chicken will soak up all those delightful flavors .

organization tips :
keep your workspace tidy. place all chopped ingredients on one side of your counter, letting you easily reach what you need without fumbling around, it also feels less chaotic and we all know that helps with clarity when cooking.

professional cooking method

step - by - step process :
start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, once it's shimmering (but not smoking.), toss in those diced onions and bell peppers, you want them sautéed for about 5 minutes , stirring occasionally until they soften up nicely .

next up ? add minced garlic to the pan cook this for another 30 seconds until fragrant but don’t burn it. push those veggies to one side of the skillet like you're making room at a crowded party .

now crank up that heat to medium - high and add your marinated chicken right in there… oh yeah. cook each side for about 6 minutes , flipping carefully until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°f /75°c , remove once done golden brown is what we're aiming for here.

temperature control :
the key here is maintaining an eye on that skillet temperature as well it shouldn’t sizzle furiously but should still give off gentle bubbles from cooking proteins and veggies together .

expert techniques

professional methods :
once cooked through you’ll know because juices run clear slice that juicy chicken into strips right there in the pan if you're feeling adventurous (or use a cutting board if that's more comfortable.) .

then return those slices back into their veggie friends along with drained black beans and corn kernels from either fresh ears or canned your choice really. season generously with salt and pepper; taste as you go along it’s crucial.

critical steps :
make sure everything gets evenly heated through by stirring gently but thoroughly during those last few moments ( 3 - 5 minutes ) over medium heat again, look out for steam rising that’s usually a good sign things are getting cozy inside your skillet.

success strategies

troubleshooting tips :
if something isn’t quite right a bit dry maybe ? consider adding broth or water as needed during cooking so nothing sticks without flavoring too much (we want bold tex - mex vibes.) .

if you've accidentally overcooked anything . ., don't panic; sprinkle some extra lime juice or fresh cilantro at serving time they help brighten flavors back up wonderfully.

quality assurance :
always do quality checks : taste while seasoning throughout this whole process not just at end to ensure balanced flavors develop properly instead of leaving bland surprises later on .

when plating kind of get fancy here : sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over top before serving alongside zesty lime wedges . . .because who doesn’t love squeezing lime juice on hot meals ?

with these steps laid out clearly, i promise you'll nail this recipe every single time and trust me the folks around will definitely be asking “what are we having next ?” enjoy every bite.

expert kitchen wisdom

professional insights

when you dive into cooking with hello fresh tex mex paste, you're tapping into a world of flavors that can elevate your meals, the beauty of this paste lies in its balance think spicy, tangy, and smoky all rolled into one, for best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) if you have time, it makes a world of difference.

expert techniques

searing the chicken well is key to locking in moisture, start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps create that beautiful golden crust. if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chipotle peppers for an extra kick or add a splash of tequila during cooking for depth .

kitchen wisdom

don't be afraid to taste as you go. adjusting flavors on - the - fly can lead to fantastic discoveries you might find that adding a pinch more salt or lime juice really brings everything together, and remember : practice makes perfect.

success guarantees

to guarantee success with this recipe, prep all ingredients before starting to cook, this way, you’ll stay organized and avoid any last - minute scrambling trust me, it’s worth it.

perfect presentation

plating techniques

for an inviting presentation, layer your dish thoughtfully, start with a bed of sautéed veggies topped with sliced chicken laid across nicely .

garnish ideas

fresh cilantro adds color and brightness. a sprinkle right before serving will make your dish pop visually and it's great for flavor too.

serving suggestions

pair this tex - mex delight with warm tortillas or over fluffy cilantro - lime rice for substance and style .

visual appeal tips

mix up colors on your plate. bright bell peppers against the dark beans create visual intrigue while enticing your guests’ appetites .

storage & make - ahead

storage guidelines

store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days, let cool completely before sealing them up this helps prevent sogginess .

preservation methods

if you're looking to keep things longer than a few days but still want those delicious flavors intact, freeze portions tightly wrapped or sealed in freezer - safe bags .

reheating instructions

reheat gently on medium heat either on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through (about 2 - 3 minutes), add a dash of lime juice when reheating it revives those fresh flavors beautifully.

freshness tips

always check ingredients like black beans and corn when using canned versions; they should smell fresh without any off odors .

creative variations

flavor adaptations

mix it up by swapping out proteins. shrimp cooks quickly and adds a delightful twist or try grilled tofu if you're going plant - based .

dietary modifications

for gluten - free options, ensure any tortillas used are certified gluten - free; many brands offer tasty alternatives now.

seasonal twists

in summer ? toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes from local markets they'll bring freshness alongside nostalgia from childhood gardens.

regional variations

try adding different spices based on regional cuisines; think caribbean jerk seasoning instead of tex - mex paste for an unexpected fusion that’s sure to impress friends at dinner parties .

expert faq solutions

common concerns

“what if my chicken doesn’t cook evenly ?” to solve uneven cooking issues : cut pieces similarly sized so they cook uniformly every time a little prep goes far here.

expert answers

“how do i know when my chicken is done ?” use an instant - read thermometer aiming for 165°f (75°c), trust me no one likes dry meat after all that effort.

troubleshooting guide

if things get too salty ? balance it out by incorporating more unsalted beans and corn which help absorb excess flavor punch without losing texture .

success tips

don’t rush marinating time; letting flavors meld creates magic that can't be rushed not even by hungry tummies waiting at the table.

complete nutrition guide

detailed breakdown

this dish packs approximately 350 kcal per serving , making it filling yet light enough not to weigh down evening activities afterward.

health benefits

black beans are high in fiber while providing protein a wonderful combo promoting heart health alongside aiding digestion (who doesn’t love good gut health ?) .

dietary information

with around 34g protein , this meal supports muscle maintenance post - workout while satisfying hunger pangs throughout busy days ahead.

portion guidance

serve generous portions but listen closely to how full everyone feels after first servings so leftovers aren’t wasted but enjoyed later instead.

Previous Recipe: Mix Fresh Chickpeas in a Quick, Tasty Salad
Next Recipe: Fry Crispy Chicken with Flavorful Spice