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Welcome to a flavorful journey of taste and convenience with this One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Made with simple ingredients, it delivers an explosion of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of classic chili or looking to try a unique twist on the traditional dish, this meal is perfect for you. It’s not just easy to make but also uses minimal clean-up, thanks to the one-skillet method.

Introduction: What Makes This One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake Special?

If you love chili and are looking for something fresh yet familiar, this One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake is a must-try. It combines the heartwarming essence of a traditional chili with a cheesy bake that’s loaded with wholesome ingredients like poblano peppers, white beans, and tender chicken. This dish is a modern take on the beloved Tex-Mex cuisine, merging the flavors of salsa verde, cumin, and chili powder with rich melted cheese on top.

Additionally, it’s a versatile meal perfect for family gatherings or even meal prepping for the week. The use of one skillet not only adds convenience but also makes the cooking process faster, locking in all the incredible flavors.

[Related Recipe: Check out this Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread to add more variety to your weeknight dinner rotation.]

Ingredients for One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake

To make this One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients. You can also find some optional substitutions to accommodate different dietary preferences or restrictions.

Main 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, to taste
• 1 cup long grain rice
• 2 ½ cups salsa verde
• 1 can white beans, drained
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Optional Toppings:

• Avocado slices
• Green onions
• Lime zest and juice

Optional Substitutions:

• For Vegetarians: Substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or mushrooms.
• For Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives.
• For Gluten-Free: Ensure the salsa verde and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

How to Make One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to make your very own One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake. The process is quick and easy, making it an excellent choice for a weekday meal.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Preparing the oven in advance ensures that the cheese will melt to golden perfection once your skillet dish is ready to bake.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped yellow onion and cubed chicken breasts. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the chicken is browned on the outside.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Spices

Next, stir in the garlic, poblano peppers, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Season the mixture with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the peppers are softened, and the spices become fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Stir in 1 cup of long grain rice and cook for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice. This step adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 5: Simmer the Mixture

Add 2 cups of water to the skillet and bring it to a boil. Once it starts to boil, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Allow the rice to cook for about 15 minutes, or until most of the water is absorbed.

Step 6: Incorporate Salsa Verde and Beans

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of salsa verde, the drained white beans, and chopped fresh cilantro. These ingredients will blend together, creating a rich and flavorful chili base.

Step 7: Bake with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese evenly over the chicken and rice mixture. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with avocado slices, green onions, lime zest, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor.

[Pro Tip: You can also serve this dish with a side of tortilla chips or a refreshing Mexican-style salad.]

Helpful Tips for Making One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake

To ensure your dish turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh peppers, onions, and garlic. They bring out the most vibrant flavors.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder chili, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or skip it altogether. For those who love spice, leave the seeds in or add an extra pepper.
• Cook the Rice Just Right: Ensure the rice is almost cooked before stirring in the salsa verde and beans. This will allow the rice to absorb maximum flavor without becoming mushy.

Cooking Techniques for the Best One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake

To elevate your cooking, consider these best cooking techniques:

• Searing the Chicken: Browning the chicken first helps lock in the juices, making it tender and flavorful.
• Layering Flavors: Add the spices early on when sautéing the vegetables to bring out their full potential.
• Using an Oven-Safe Skillet: A cast-iron skillet works best because it distributes heat evenly and holds up well in the oven.

[Related Recipe: Try these Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix for another easy and tasty meal idea.]

Serving Suggestions for One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake

Pair your One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake with the following sides for a complete meal:

• Mexican Street Corn Salad – The tangy and spicy flavors of the salad complement the creamy texture of the chili.
• Fresh Guacamole – Add some tortilla chips for dipping, and you have the perfect appetizer.
• Refreshing Beverages – Serve with a cold margarita or a chilled lime soda for a refreshing drink option.

Nutritional Information for One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake

This dish is not only tasty but also packs in a variety of nutrients:

• Calories: 779 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fat: 43g
• Fiber: 9g
• Vitamin C: 30% DV
• Calcium: 25% DV

Storage and Leftovers for One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake

If you have leftovers, here’s how you can store and reheat this delicious chili bake:

• Refrigerate: Store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure the dish cools completely before freezing.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake

1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just bake it at 425°F until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.

2. Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Certainly! Just be aware that brown rice may take longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the simmering time accordingly.

3. Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

Absolutely! You can add an extra jalapeño or include cayenne pepper in the spice mix for more heat.

4. What Can I Serve with This Dish?

You can serve it with a variety of sides such as tortilla chips, a fresh Mexican corn salad, or a refreshing guacamole dip.

Conclusion

There you have it—One Skillet White Chicken Chili Bake, a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With its rich layers of flavor and cheesy finish, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or for a cozy gathering, it’s bound to impress. Don’t forget to leave a comment or share your personal twist on this recipe!

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