Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

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Let’s be real for a sec—between chasing the kids, juggling work, and trying to remember the last time you had a minute to yourself, dinner needs to be quick, comforting, and maybe even a little exciting. Enter the Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet. This one-pan beauty is everything you want after a long day: easy cleanup, bold flavors, and the kind of cheesy, saucy goodness that’ll make your family think you’ve gone full-on chef mode (spoiler: you haven’t, but we’ll keep that between us).

Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just another Wednesday that needs saving, this dish is your cozy, flavor-packed hero.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Let me count the ways…

It’s made in ONE skillet (hello, fewer dishes).
It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of Tex-Mex vibes.
It sneaks in protein and fiber (thank you, black beans and chicken thighs).
It’s customizable with toppings your crew actually likes.
And best of all? It’s ready in under 30 minutes.

It’s basically the dinner version of having your cake and eating it too—only this time, it’s smothered in enchilada sauce and cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll throw into this flavor bomb:

1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
15 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 ½ cups red enchilada sauce
½ cup salsa (your fave—mild, medium, or hot)
6 small white corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips
1 cup Mexican blend cheese, shredded

Optional Toppings (highly recommended!):
Sour cream, diced green onions, avocado chunks, or juicy tomatoes. You do you.

How to Make It (No Fuss, Just Flavor)

Step 1: Season & Sauté That Chicken

Sprinkle your chicken pieces with garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté in a large skillet over medium heat—no oil needed! The thighs are juicy enough to handle their own business. Cook until they’re browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Simmer the Saucy Stuff

Add in the rinsed black beans, enchilada sauce, and salsa. Give it a good stir and let it all simmer together. You’ll know it’s ready when the beans are warmed through and your kitchen starts smelling like a cantina (in the best way).

Step 3: Tortilla Time

Add in the tortilla strips and stir gently to coat them in all that delicious sauce. Let them soak up the flavor for a couple of minutes.

Step 4: Cheese, Please!

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, pop a lid on the skillet, and let it melt into gooey perfection—about 3 minutes should do it.

Step 5: Dress It Up

Top with whatever makes your heart (and belly) happy—creamy sour cream, green onions, avocado, fresh tomatoes, or all of the above.

Tips for Total Skillet Success

Go dark meat! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, especially in one-pan meals like this.
Tortilla tip: Don’t over-stir after adding the tortilla strips—they’ll break down if handled too much.
Cheese swap: Out of Mexican blend? Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack work beautifully.
Want it spicier? Toss in a pinch of cayenne or use a spicier salsa.

A Little Story From My Kitchen to Yours

This Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet quickly became one of my weeknight go-tos after a friend showed up with it during a chaotic week (think teething toddler meets broken dishwasher). It was warm, cheesy, and hit every comfort-food note. I tweaked it a bit—because that’s what we do—and now it’s a family favorite, especially when we need a little “hug in a skillet.”

Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet topped with sour cream, guacamole, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro in a white skillet.

FAQs About Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just keep an eye on them—breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily.

How do I store leftovers?

Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or sauce.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the chicken for extra beans or even some sautéed bell peppers and corn.

Are the tortillas supposed to get soggy?

A little, yes—they soak up that sauce and add a casserole-like texture. It’s kind of the magic here!

Conclusion

So, next time you’re standing in front of the fridge, feeling like dinner inspiration has left the building (we’ve all been there), remember this: the Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is here to save the evening. It’s quick, comforting, and so full of bold, cheesy, saucy goodness that your taste buds—and your family—will thank you. Plus, with only one pan to clean, you might just have time for a little you moment afterward. A cup of tea, a glass of wine, or finally watching that episode you’ve had on pause for two days—yes, please.

This skillet meal isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug at the end of a long day, made with love and a dash of spice. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or just yourself (leftovers, anyone?), this dish brings all the flavor with none of the fuss.

Happy cooking,

Explore More Delicious Chicken Dinners

If you loved this Chicken Black Bean Enchilada Skillet for its one-pan ease and bold Tex-Mex flavor, you’re in for a treat! Chicken Magic Recipes is bursting with other weeknight wonders that follow the same delicious logic: easy prep, family-friendly flavors, and minimal cleanup. Whether you’re looking to spice things up, try something new, or stick with comfort classics, here are a few must-try dishes to keep the dinner inspiration flowing:

Craving more enchilada goodness? This Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole delivers creamy, cheesy layers that are perfect for potlucks or cozy nights in.
If you’re into skillet meals that bring serious flavor, the Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is another one-pan crowd-pleaser that’s just as simple and satisfying.
Want a lighter spin with all the zest? Try the Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—it’s fresh, hearty, and packed with Southwestern flair.
And for those days when you’re craving that cheesy-meets-hearty combo, the Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a comforting twist on pasta night with a fun, family-friendly presentation.

With these recipes on hand, your weekly menu just got a whole lot tastier—and easier. Happy eating!