“One-Skillet Wonder: Irresistible White Chicken Chili Bake for Effortless Flavor Explosion!”

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with our One-Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake. This hassle-free recipe combines succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and hearty beans into a cheesy, comforting delight. With a zesty salsa verde kick, this dish promises a symphony of flavors in every bite, all baked to perfection in just one skillet. Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans – this is a game-changer for busy evenings!

In our home, the aroma of this White Chicken Chili Bake wafting through the kitchen is a signal that good times are ahead. Picture a cozy family dinner, laughter echoing, and the anticipation of a delicious, hearty meal. This recipe has become our go-to for its simplicity and the way it effortlessly brings everyone to the table. It’s not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that transforms ordinary evenings into extraordinary ones.

Why This One-Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake Wins Every Time

• Effortless Preparation: A single skillet does it all – from sautéing chicken to baking with cheesy goodness. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!
• Flavor-Packed Ingredients: Poblano peppers, jalapeño, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder create a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Salsa Verde Magic: The addition of salsa verde adds a zesty, tangy twist, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
• Cheesy Perfection: A layer of melted cheddar and pepper jack cheese takes this dish to the next level, ensuring a gooey, irresistible finish.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded if desired, and chopped
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 1 cup long grain rice (approximately 180g)
• 2 1/2 cups salsa verde
• 1 can white beans, drained
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 85g)
• 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (about 57g)
• Avocado and green onions, for serving
• Lime zest and juice, for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. Sauté onions and chicken for 5 minutes. Add garlic, poblano peppers, bell pepper, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. Add 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting. Cover and let the rice cook for 15 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in salsa verde, white beans, and cilantro.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese over the chicken and rice. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Serve topped with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy the flavorful masterpiece!

Notes:

• Customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream or diced tomatoes.
• For a spicier kick, leave the jalapeño seeds intact.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for a personalized touch.
• Make it a complete meal by serving with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.