One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

This One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet is a delightful, cheesy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its creamy texture and zesty flavors, it brings the essence of traditional enchiladas right to your table in just 30 minutes. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a low carb option, making it ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for quick dinners.
• One Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
• Flavor Packed: A combination of spices and creamy ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, making it a hit with the whole family.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or customize with your favorite veggies for added nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: The heart of this recipe; it allows for even cooking and easy mixing of ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining sauces smoothly without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

For the Creaminess

• 3/4 cup sour cream

For the Protein

• 1 1/2 lb cooked chicken (cubed or shredded)

For Flavor Boost

• 2 tbsp sweet paprika

How to Make One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Step 1: Melt Butter and Simmer Broth

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 2: Combine the Spices

Whisk in the tomato paste, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, sweet paprika, and cayenne until smooth. This creates a rich base for your dish.

Step 3: Add Creaminess

Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the sour cream until well combined. Then stir in the cooked chicken, tossing to coat all pieces thoroughly.

Step 4: Melt Cheese Topping

Sprinkle cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit until melted, which should take about 4 minutes.

With these simple steps, your One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet will be ready to serve! Enjoy this flavorful meal with friends or family any night of the week.

How to Serve One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

This delicious One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet is not only easy to make but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Cilantro

• Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the zesty chicken enchiladas.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the skillet over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for added crunch and nutrition.

With Avocado Slices

• Top each serving with creamy avocado slices. This adds richness and balances the spice of the dish.

Pair with Cauliflower Rice

• For a low-carb alternative, serve alongside cauliflower rice. This absorbs the sauce well and adds texture.

Garnish with Lime Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds an extra zing to every bite.

How to Perfect One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

To ensure your One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use cooked chicken: Pre-cooked chicken saves time and ensures even heating throughout the dish.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the chili powder and cayenne pepper according to your family’s heat preference.
• Incorporate veggies: Adding bell peppers or zucchini can introduce more texture and nutrients without compromising on carbs.
• Choose quality broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness while enhancing flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit off heat for a few minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Complement your One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet with these delightful side dishes that will complete your meal.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad featuring grilled corn, lime, and spices; perfect for adding sweetness.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed with olive oil and garlic make a light, low-carb side option.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs well with enchiladas and adds healthy fats.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil provide a crunchy contrast to the skillet.
5. Cauliflower Mash: A creamy mash made from steamed cauliflower offers a comforting, low-carb alternative to potatoes.
6. Chopped Salad: A simple salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado can add freshness and crunch alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

• Using low-quality chicken broth: A poor-quality broth can lead to bland flavors. Choose a high-quality or homemade chicken broth for the best results.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry. Make sure to monitor cooking times, especially if you’re using pre-cooked chicken.

• Skipping the spices: Neglecting spices can result in a dull dish. Use fresh spices and adjust according to your taste preferences for a zesty kick.

• Not letting the cheese melt properly: Rushing this step can leave you with unevenly melted cheese. Cover the skillet and allow enough time for the cheese to melt completely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Make sure to cool the dish before sealing it up.

Freezing One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date so you can track its freshness.

Reheating One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet:

Can I use other meats in the One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet?

Yes! You can substitute turkey, beef, or lamb for chicken depending on your preference.

How do I customize my One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust the spice levels by adding more cayenne or chili powder.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What sides go well with One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet?

Serve it alongside a fresh salad, cauliflower rice, or avocado slices for a balanced meal that complements the dish’s flavors.

Final Thoughts

The One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet is not only quick but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. With its cheesy goodness and zesty flavors, it’s bound to please your whole family. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein options!