Skillet Roasted Chicken With Pico De Gallo – Easy Recipe & Tips

Skillet Roasted Chicken With Pico De Gallo is a delightful dish that brings together the succulent flavors of roasted chicken with the zesty and refreshing taste of fresh Pico de Gallo. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, offering a vibrant combination of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pico de Gallo:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt to taste

Optional:

• 1 avocado, diced (for added creaminess)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (for extra spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat your skillet: Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up.
2. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through.
4. Rest the chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Preparing the Pico de Gallo

1. Combine the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced jalapeños, and cilantro.
2. Add lime juice: Squeeze the juice of two limes over the mixture, and add salt to taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, sprinkle in the optional chili powder.
3. Mix well: Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Serving

1. Slice the chicken: Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips.
2. Top with Pico de Gallo: Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving plate and generously top with the fresh Pico de Gallo. If you’re using diced avocado, sprinkle it over the top for added creaminess.
3. Serve immediately: This dish is best served fresh, allowing the warm, juicy chicken to meld perfectly with the cool, zesty Pico de Gallo.

Tips and Variations

• Slow-Cooked Option: If you prefer a slow-cooked version, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture overnight. Slow-cook it on low for 6-8 hours or until tender. This method enhances the flavors and ensures the chicken is incredibly juicy.
• Grilled Chicken Alternative: For a smokier flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet. Follow the same seasoning method and grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side.
• Pico de Gallo Chicken and Rice: Serve this dish over a bed of cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal. The rice soaks up the juices from the chicken and Pico de Gallo, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Stuffed Chicken Breast: For a unique twist, butterfly the chicken breasts and stuff them with Pico de Gallo before cooking. Secure with toothpicks and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
• Pico de Gallo Chicken Sandwich: Use leftover chicken and Pico de Gallo to make a delicious sandwich. Layer the ingredients on a toasted bun with avocado slices and a drizzle of sour cream or chipotle mayo.
• Storage Tip: Store any leftover Pico de Gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and can be used as a topping for tacos, salads, or as a dip with tortilla chips.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

This nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Skillet Roasted Chicken With Pico De Gallo is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings the best of both worlds—juicy, flavorful chicken paired with a fresh, zesty salsa. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare but packed with flavor, making it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.