Delicious Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, food lovers! Today, I have the recipe for a fantastic meal that is going to spice things up at your party – the Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe. It’s the perfect dish for when you crave something deliciously spicy & vibrant, yet quick & easy for a weekday dinner. Trust me; this recipe will make you feel like a seasoned pro in the kitchen, even if you’re not one.
The recipe’s Pico De Gallo component is what makes it stand out from other chicken recipes. It’s an appetizing salsa fresca made with fresh tomatoes, scallions, cilantro and lime juice that will make your taste buds zing. The chicken breasts are thinly cut and pounded into submission so that they soak up all the delicious Pico De Gallo flavors, bringing it all together in a wonderfully textured dish.
Moreover, if you’re looking to serve something fancier for your guests than just regular baked or grilled chicken, this recipe is perfect for wow-ing them but still keeping it as painless and effortless as possible. The bright reds and greens of the Pico De Gallo against the golden brown chicken pieces make for an aesthetically pleasing presentation that could easily be used as a centerpiece on your table.
So let’s get started on this delightful recipe! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step to ensure nothing goes wrong. You’ll be left with an impressive meal that I assure will become one of your go-to recipes in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of bland and boring chicken dinners that leave you feeling unsatisfied? Look no further than this Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe! This recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you satiated.
Featuring tender and juicy chicken breasts pounded thin, the dish is bursting with flavor from the zesty pico de gallo salsa fresca that is perfectly balanced with lime juice, fresh cilantro, and scallions. The combination of these ingredients blends together harmoniously to create a savory sensation that will make your mouth water with every bite.
Not only does this dish taste heavenly, but it is also a healthy option for any mealtime. The recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken breasts, which are high in protein and low in fat. Moreover, fresh ingredients such as diced tomatoes, garlic clove, and olive oil offer essential nutrients for overall wellness.
The best part about this recipe is that it can be whipped together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties. If you’re looking to switch things up, the recipe offers variations such as adding shredded pepper jack cheese or serving over rice for a more filling meal.
In short: if you want to add some excitement to your dinner table while also staying healthy, this Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe provides a remarkable option.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe. This recipe calls for fresh herbs and spices, along with juicy tomatoes, succulent chicken breast, and a hint of lime juice.
Here’s what you need:
- 1 lb thin cut chicken breasts (pounded thin or cut in half)
- Salt and pepper to taste (about 1/4 tsp each)
- 4 tsp olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 scallion (finely sliced)
- 4 cups chopped tomatoes (about 1 lb)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime juice from 2 limes
- Pico de gallo or salsa fresca (store-bought or homemade)
Although the ingredient list might look long, most of these items are pantry staples that you probably have on hand. However, it is important to use fresh ingredients to get the best flavor possible.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve established the reasons for our love for this Pico de Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe, it’s time to dive into how to make it. Rest assured, this recipe is quick and easy, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
Before anything else, gather all the necessary ingredients to make your cooking session as efficient as possible.
Here are the list of ingredients you will need:
- 1 lb thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 4 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can of Pico de Gallo (or homemade Pico de Gallo)
- fresh cilantro
- lime juice
Cooking Process
Step 1: Cut the Chicken Breasts
Slice the 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half lengthwise so that you end up with four thin cut chicken breasts.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Breasts
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, cumin, salt and black pepper. Season both sides of each chicken breast with the seasoning blend.
Step 3: Roast the Chicken
Preheat a skillet over high heat for about a minute. Once it’s hot, add 2 teaspoons of olive oil to it. When hot, add the chicken breasts in a single layer making sure they don’t touch each other. Cook the chicken for about 6 minutes on each side or until browned on both sides and just cooked through.
Step 4: Make Pico De Gallo Sauce While Cooking Chicken
In a small bowl or jar stir together the pico de gallo with fresh cilantro leaves (to taste) and lime juice (to taste).
Step 5: Let Chicken Rest and Cut
Remove the roasted chicken breasts from your skillet and let them rest for at least five minutes before cutting them into bite-size pieces.
Step 6: Combine Chicken Pieces with Pico De Gallo Sauce
Place your roasted chicken breasted that were cut into bite-size pieces back into the skillet but turn off the heat first. Pour in your pico de gallo sauce and stir everything thoroughly so that all pieces of your chicken are coated evenly with your delicious sauce.
That’s it! Your Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe is ready. Serve on plates or wrap your chicken filling in warm tortillas for delicious Pico De Gallo Chicken Wraps. The possibilities are endless!
For those looking for vegetarian alternatives, substitute cooked rice or grilled vegetables for chicken. This also makes a great leftover meal option – make extra and use it as filling for quesadillas or chipotle chicken wraps. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
While the Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe is already packed with flavors, adding some twists to this dish wouldn’t hurt. Here are a few substitutions and variations to try:
– Rice: Instead of serving the dish on its own, you can pair it with rice. You can either mix the shredded chicken into the rice or have it on the side.
– Grilled Chicken: If you prefer something smoky and flavorful, swap out roasted chicken for grilled chicken. Simply grill thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, and olive oil until done.
– Quesadilla: Take this recipe up a notch by making quesadillas. Spread some shredded pepper jack cheese over a tortilla, top with the Pico De Gallo Chicken mixture, add another layer of cheese and top with another tortilla. Cook on both sides until cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
– Chipotle Chicken Breasts: If you’re looking for something spicy, swap out the regular chicken breasts for chipotle-spiced ones. Simply season thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts with ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chipotle powder (or canned chipotles in adobo sauce), salt & pepper, and olive oil. Roast the chicken until cooked through.
– Baked Chicken: If you don’t like using a skillet for cooking purposes or want a change in texture from roasted or grilled chicken, then substitute it by baking it instead. Mix all of the ingredients together in a baking dish before covering it in foil and bake in an oven at 375F (190C) for about 20 minutes. After that time has passed remove foil to let the dish continue baking for an additional 10 minutes.
These substitutions and variations are great ways to experiment with different flavors while still enjoying this delicious Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe.
Serving and Pairing
Are you looking for the perfect dish to serve at your next dinner party? Look no further than this Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe. The bold flavors of this dish pair perfectly with a variety of sides and drinks.
For a complete meal, serve this chicken skillet with rice, vegetables or a mixed green salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try swapping out the rice for grilled vegetables or a quinoa salad.
To really impress your guests, consider serving this skillet alongside a spread of tortilla chips and guacamole. The fresh ingredients in the pico de gallo will give your taste buds a mouth-watering sensation.
For drinks, consider pairing this dish with a spicy margarita or a cold cerveza. The tangy lime juice in the recipe complements the flavors of these drinks perfectly.
If you have leftovers, you can easily turn them into delicious chicken quesadillas. Simply shred the leftover chicken and add it to a quesadilla with some pepper jack cheese and salsa fresca.
Whether you’re serving this dish for a dinner party or enjoying it at home with your family, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab a skillet and get cooking!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As tempting as it is to dig into the freshly made Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet, sometimes you require a dish that can be prepared in advance or leftovers that can be enjoyed at a later time. Fortunately, this dish is perfect for storage and reheating, without compromising the taste and texture.
If making ahead, prepare the chicken as directed, but don’t add the pico de gallo. Instead, let the chicken cool fully before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Prepare the pico de gallo separately and store it covered in the fridge until ready to use.
To reheat, warm up a skillet over medium-high heat with just enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Add chicken pieces to the pan and cook until heated throughout, stirring occasionally. Once chicken is hot, remove skillet from heat and add desired amount of pico de gallo on top. You can also reheat the chicken in microwave-safe dishes by covering them with a damp paper towel and heating on high for 1 minute.
Leftover Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you wish to reheat it, do so on medium heat in a covered skillet until thoroughly heated throughout.
Finally, keep in mind that while reheating nourishes our appetite, flavor can change slightly with takeout meals or reheating leftovers because bacteria trims out its nutritional value. Consume reheated leftovers within 24 hours and store immediately after serving. Time your food waste disposal promptly. Enjoy your time with friends and family while devouring our delicious Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet recipe!
Tips for Perfect Results
When cooking Pico de Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe, there are some key tips to follow to ensure perfect results. As a scribe for a home chef who loves throwing parties, I have gathered some of the best cooking tips to help you create a delicious and flavorful dish.
Firstly, when it comes to seasoning the chicken breast, don’t be afraid to get creative with spices. In addition to salt and pepper, consider incorporating cumin, chili powder or paprika to add extra depth of flavor. If you are in a hurry and want to save time for chopping and prepping, try pounding your chicken breasts thinly with a meat mallet beforehand so they cook faster.
Secondly, while cooking the chicken in the skillet, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding is one of the biggest mistakes that people make when cooking chicken breasts. When there are too many pieces in the skillet at once, they end up steaming instead of searing properly which makes them less crispy and flavorful overall. It’s best to work in batches if needed and cook each piece thoroughly before moving on.
Thirdly, let your Pico de Gallo chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This will help all of flavors meld together and create a cohesive taste throughout. The overnight refrigeration process will give it even more depth of flavor.
Lastly, don’t forget about presentation! After layering the chicken pieces on a platter or skillet, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for color contrast and added texture. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also add a beautiful zing that ties all of the flavors together.
Following these tips can make all the difference when cooking Pico de Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe. With these little changes implemented into your usual way of cooking this dish, you can achieve great tasting results that will make your guests say ‘Olé!’.
FAQ
Now, it’s time to address some frequent questions that home chefs have had about this recipe. In this section, we will cover some common inquiries about the Pico de Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe and provide you with expert answers. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner, reading through these questions and answers will help you make the most of this dish and ensure that your dinner party is a success. So, let’s dive in!
Should you drain pico de gallo?
Nothing beats the taste of a homemade salsa fresca or pico de gallo. To ensure maximum flavor, allow your salsa to sit for at least 15 to 30 minutes before serving, giving the flavors a chance to combine and develop. The salt in your recipe will extract some of the moisture from the tomatoes, creating a delicious liquid that will enhance the flavor profile. Simply remove any excess liquid just before serving, so that your salsa is the perfect consistency.
How do you make pico de gallo not runny?
If you want a thick and flavorful Pico de Gallo that doesn’t create a mess, then take the time to sprinkle some salt on your chopped tomatoes and let them drain before mixing them with the other ingredients. This method will prevent any excess liquid from seeping into the dish, giving you a chunky and satisfying texture.
What goes good with pico de gallo?
If you’re looking for a versatile recipe to add some zing to your dishes, Pico de Gallo is the answer. This delicious and refreshing salsa can be used in a myriad of ways to elevate your meals. You can spoon it over burrito bowls, chicken enchiladas, tacos, tostadas, burritos, or quesadillas to add a burst of flavor. It also makes an excellent addition to rice, scrambled eggs, huevos rancheros, or grilled vegetables. If you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, top a baked potato, turkey burger, grilled steak, grilled chicken, or fish tacos with it. The possibilities are endless!
What is pico de gallo seasoning made of?
Get ready to add some fresh and zesty flavors to your party with this Mexican treasure – the Pico De Gallo! Just with six simple and vibrant ingredients – fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt, you can create a mouthwatering chunky salsa that is perfect for burritos, tacos, and chips. Better known as Salsa Fresca, this healthy and colorful side dish can brighten up your table for any occasion. Get your taste buds ready to dive into the world of Pico De Gallo!
Bottom Line
In summary, the Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe is a great addition to your recipe repertoire. With a short preparation time of just 30 minutes and easily accessible ingredients like chicken breast, tomatoes, and cilantro, this dish is both easy to make and delicious to eat. It’s perfect for any occasion and can be adapted to suit your taste.
Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, tangy or fresh flavors, this recipe has got you covered. You can adjust the cumin and garlic powder for an extra kick of spice or add some pepper jack cheese and wrap it in a quesadilla for a more indulgent experience.
Furthermore, this dish is very versatile as you can serve it with rice, grilled chicken, baked chicken or even use shredded chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken breasts for different textures.
In conclusion, I highly recommend giving the Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe a try. It provides the perfect harmony of flavors and is sure to please everyone at your next gathering. So go ahead and impress your guests with this amazing dish!
Pico De Gallo Chicken Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thin-cut (or 1 lb chicken breasts, pounded thin)
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 15 ounces tomatoes, petit cut
- 1 tablespoon jalapeno, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
- Meanwhile, stir together the tomatoes (with juices), jalapeno, garlic, cilantro, scallion and lime juice. Pour over the chicken breasts. Cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve immediately.
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!