One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

This One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet is an easy and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With its creamy texture and zesty flavors, it’s a family favorite that can be made in just about 30 minutes. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also fits well into a low-carb lifestyle, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual family meals to gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and creamy sour cream creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Low Carb: Perfect for those following a low-carb diet while still delivering comfort food satisfaction.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients to include your favorite veggies or toppings.
• One Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A good-sized skillet ensures even cooking and allows enough space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps achieve a smooth mixture when combining sauces and seasonings.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 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 Main Dish

• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 lb cooked chicken (cubed or shredded)
• 2 tbsp sweet paprika

How to Make One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Step 1: Melt the Butter

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Whisk in the tomato paste, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, sweet paprika, and cayenne until smooth.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream

Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the sour cream until well combined. Stir in the chicken cubes or shreds and toss to coat them evenly.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

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

Now you have a delicious One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet ready to serve! Enjoy this dish with your favorite toppings like avocado or cilantro for extra flavor.

How to Serve One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Serving your One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet can elevate the dining experience for you and your family. Here are some tasty serving suggestions that complement this dish perfectly.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the skillet for a burst of freshness.
• Green Onions: Add sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor and crunch.

Accompanying Toppings

• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spicy flavors.
• Chopped Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes enhance the dish with their juiciness and acidity.

On a Bed of Greens

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the enchilada mixture in large lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb option.
• Mixed Greens: Place the skillet contents atop a bed of mixed greens for added texture.

With Additional Cheese

• Cheddar or Monterey Jack: Top with extra cheese before serving for those who crave extra creaminess.

How to Perfect One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can greatly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the cayenne and chili powder to suit your heat preference.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure that chicken is cooked through before adding it to the skillet for safety.
• Keep it Creamy: Adjust sour cream quantities if you prefer a creamier texture in your dish.
• Let it Rest: Allow the skillet to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to help flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb substitute that absorbs flavors beautifully.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, perfect for soaking up sauce without extra carbs.
3. Guacamole: The creamy texture complements spicy dishes well and adds healthy fats.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw can provide a nice contrast to the creamy enchiladas.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach adds nutrients and pairs well with chicken dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet, avoiding these common mistakes can ensure a delicious outcome for you and your family.

• Ignoring ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an imbalance of flavors. Always use precise amounts for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you use already cooked chicken, overcooking it in the skillet can make it dry. Heat it just until warmed through.
• Not whisking sauce properly: Failing to whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly can lead to lumps. Take a few extra moments to mix everything until smooth.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Every batch of ingredients can vary in flavor. Taste your dish and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal taste.
• Covering without checking: Letting cheese melt without checking can result in burning. Monitor closely to achieve the perfect gooey texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet that may help clarify your cooking experience.

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use raw chicken. Just cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients and adjust cooking time accordingly.

What are low carb options for this recipe?

You can substitute traditional pasta or rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep it low carb while enjoying the same flavors.

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

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition, or swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt if desired.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe holds up well in the fridge and makes great leftovers, perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can this be made vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

The One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet is not only quick and easy but also full of flavor that will please everyone at your table. Its versatility allows for various customization options, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try today!