Chicken Fiesta Recipe

Chicken!

1. 1

   Prep the chicken

   Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to make 2 thinner cutlets or pound gently to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.

2. 2

   Season

   In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, salt and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken. Let rest 5–10 minutes at room temperature to absorb flavors.

3. 3

   Prep vegetables and pineapple

   While chicken rests, core and slice the green bell pepper into 1/2-inch strips. Peel and slice the onion into 1/4–1/2-inch slices. Mince the garlic. Drain pineapple chunks and, if large, halve them so pieces are bite-sized. Zest half of the lime and then cut it in half for juice.

4. 4

   Cook chicken

   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side, until a deep golden crust forms and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest.

5. 5

   Sauté vegetables

   Lower heat to medium. Add butter (or 1 tablespoon olive oil if preferred) to the same skillet. Add the sliced onion and cook 2–3 minutes until starting to soften. Add the green pepper and continue to cook 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).

6. 6

   Add pineapple and lime

   Add the drained pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook 2–3 minutes until they begin to caramelize slightly and warm through. Squeeze half the lime over the vegetables and pineapple and add the lime zest; stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or Cajun seasoning if desired.

7. 7

   Combine and melt cheese

   Return the rested chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables and pineapple. Sprinkle the grated cheddar evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and reduce heat to low for 2–3 minutes, until cheese melts and everything is heated through.

8. 8

   Finish and serve

   Remove from heat. Squeeze remaining lime half over the dish. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro, if using. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or alongside warm tortillas. Ensure each portion gets chicken, peppers, onions, pineapple and a generous amount of melted cheddar.