You know those nights when you need dinner on the table fast, but you’re craving something hearty and satisfying? That’s exactly why this Cheesy Ground Chicken Skillet has become my family’s weeknight hero. As a busy mom of two, I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count – it’s the perfect mix of easy, healthy, and downright delicious. The juicy ground chicken gets cozy with colorful peppers and sweet corn, all smothered in melty cheese that makes everyone at the table happy. Best part? It all comes together in one pan (hello, easy cleanup!) and tastes way fancier than the 30 minutes it takes to make. Trust me, once you try this cheesy masterpiece, it’ll become your go-to just like it did for us.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Chicken Skillet
This skillet meal checks all the boxes for busy weeknights (and lazy weekends too!). Here’s why it’s become my family’s favorite:
- One-pan wonder: From browning the chicken to melting that glorious cheese, everything happens in a single skillet. Fewer dishes? Yes please!
- Protein-packed: With 30g of protein per serving, it keeps everyone full and satisfied without feeling heavy.
- Kid-approved magic: The melted cheese makes veggies disappear – my picky eaters gobble up every bite!
- Endlessly customizable: Swap in whatever veggies you have, adjust the spices, or try different cheeses. It’s foolproof!
- 30-minute hero: Faster than takeout but tastes like you spent hours cooking.
Seriously – this recipe is the dinner equivalent of a cozy hug. Comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down? That’s my kind of meal!
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Chicken Skillet
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy skillet meal (measurements matter for perfect results every time!):
- 1 lb ground chicken (not packed – loose in the package)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for higher heat)
- 1 small onion, diced (about 1/2 cup – I prefer yellow for sweetness)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color – my kids love red for extra sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tsp – more if you’re garlic obsessed like me!)
- 1 tsp chili powder (the secret flavor booster)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional but adds amazing depth)
- Salt and pepper (to taste – I use about 1/2 tsp salt)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (fire-roasted add extra flavor!)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned – measure after draining)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water (broth = more flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (tightly packed – I use sharp cheddar)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley (optional but adds freshness)
Ingredient Substitutions
No ground chicken? No problem! Ground turkey works beautifully here. For veggies, try black beans instead of corn or zucchini instead of peppers. Dairy-free? Use your favorite melty vegan cheese (Violife shreds work great). Out of fresh garlic? 1/4 tsp garlic powder per clove does the trick. The beauty of this recipe is how forgiving it is!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Chicken Skillet
Okay, let’s get cooking! I promise this is easier than it looks – just follow these simple steps and you’ll have a cheesy, bubbly skillet of goodness in no time:
- Prep your pan: Heat a large skillet (I use my trusty 12-inch cast iron) over medium-high for about 1 minute before adding the oil. You want it nice and hot so the chicken browns beautifully.
- Brown that chicken: Add your ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon like you’re playing connect-the-dots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains – don’t rush this step! That browning equals flavor. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika if using.
- Sauté the veggies: Push the chicken to one side and add onions, peppers, and garlic. Listen for that happy sizzle! Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and your kitchen smells amazing.
- Bring it all together: Stir in drained tomatoes and corn (I always sneak an extra spoonful of corn – shh!). Let everything get friendly for 2 minutes.
- Simmer time: Pour in your broth and let it bubble uncovered for 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the liquid reduces by about half.
- Cheese blanket: Sprinkle that shredded cheese evenly like you’re tucking everyone in for the night. Cover with a lid and let the magic happen for 2-3 minutes until melty perfection.
- Finishing touch: Kill the heat, scatter fresh herbs if using, and prepare for compliments!
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Want my secret tricks? Pat the chicken dry before cooking for better browning. Cover the cheese completely while melting – no peeking! And if your skillet isn’t oven-safe, just cover it with foil instead of a lid. Oh, and always let it rest 2 minutes before serving – makes all the difference!
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30-Minute Cheesy Ground Chicken Skillet Your Family Will Devour
A quick and easy one-pan meal featuring ground chicken, veggies, and melted cheese for a satisfying dinner.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the ground chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, making sure to stir occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
- Sauté the veggies: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the tomatoes and corn: Stir in the diced tomatoes and corn, cooking for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth and stir. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the mixture, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes until melted.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with cilantro or parsley, and serve.
Notes
- Use any type of cheese for melting.
- Adjust spices to taste.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Ground Chicken Skillet
This skillet shines all on its own, but here’s how my family loves to enjoy it (depending on how hungry we are!):
- Over rice: Spoon it onto fluffy white or brown rice – the cheesy sauce makes the perfect “gravy”
- With tortillas: Warm corn or flour tortillas turn it into DIY tacos (my kids’ favorite way!)
- Salad sidekick: A crisp green salad with lime dressing cuts through the richness perfectly
- Nacho-style: Pile it onto tortilla chips with extra cheese and broil for 2 minutes – game day magic!
My pro tip? Serve it straight from the skillet at the table – it stays warm and makes everyone feel cozy!
Storing and Reheating
This skillet meal tastes just as good the next day (maybe even better after the flavors mingle!). Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water (about 1 tbsp) and warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat – this keeps the chicken juicy and prevents drying out. No skillet? The microwave works too – just cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each. Pro tip: If the cheese separates, a quick stir always brings it back together beautifully!
Cheesy Ground Chicken Skillet FAQs
I get asked these questions all the time about this recipe – here are my tried-and-true answers:
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef work great – just adjust cooking time since beef has more fat to render. Drain excess grease if needed before adding veggies.
How can I make this spicier?
My favorite ways to turn up the heat: add 1/2 tsp cayenne with the chili powder, throw in some diced jalapeños with the peppers, or stir in a few dashes of hot sauce at the end.
Can I prep this ahead?
You bet! Cook everything through the simmering step, then cool and refrigerate. When ready, just reheat gently and add the cheese – perfect for busy nights.
What cheese melts best?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but for ultimate meltiness, mix in some Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Pre-shredded works fine in a pinch!
Why is my cheese clumping?
Make sure your heat isn’t too high when melting, and stir it in gradually if needed. A splash of milk can help smooth it out beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on what’s in each serving (based on using 1 cup cheddar cheese and olive oil): about 350 calories, 30g protein, and 15g carbs. Of course, these are estimates – your exact numbers will dance around depending on your ingredient choices. That’s the beauty of homemade cooking!
Ready to Fall in Love With This Cheesy Skillet?
Don’t just take my word for it – grab your skillet and see why this recipe has become my family’s weeknight MVP! It’s the perfect mix of easy, cheesy comfort that makes everyone happy (including the dishwasher, since there’s only one pan to wash). I’d love to hear how your version turns out – snap a pic of that melty cheese pull and tag me on social so I can cheer you on! Trust me, once you taste that first bite of juicy chicken and gooey cheese, you’ll understand why we make this at least twice a month. Happy cooking, friends – now go make some memories around the table!
