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As the back-to-school season approaches, families everywhere are bracing themselves for the transition from carefree summer days to busy school mornings filled with homework, extracurricular activities, and, of course, meal preparation. With schedules tightening and demands on time increasing, the need for easy, nutritious meals becomes paramount. Parents are constantly searching for recipes that not only appeal to the taste buds of children but also meet the nutritional needs of growing bodies.

Back To School Treats Chicken Skillet

Looking for an easy and nutritious dinner solution as school starts up again? Try the Back To School Chicken Skillet Treats! This one-pan meal is packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and delicious spices, making it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe adapts easily to dietary preferences and available ingredients. Involve the whole family in cooking and enjoy a wholesome meal together!

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup bell peppers (a mix of red, yellow, and green), diced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp ground cumin

½ tsp chili powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving

Instructions
 

Heat the Skillet: Begin by placing a large skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up for about a minute until shimmering.

    Cook the Chicken: Once the skillet is ready, carefully add the diced chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that all sides are browned and the chicken is cooked through.

      Sauté the Vegetables: After the chicken is nicely browned, incorporate the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers into the skillet. Sauté these vegetables for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and the onion has become translucent.

        Combine Corn and Beans: Next, stir in the sweet corn and rinsed black beans. Mix everything well, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until all ingredients are heated through.

          Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the surface of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid, allowing the cheese to melt for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is gooey and bubbly.

            Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve the chicken skillet warm, with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side if you like a creamy accompaniment.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4