Description

Cowboy Chicken is a hearty, flavorful casserole featuring seasoned boneless, skinless chicken breasts topped with a vibrant mixture of black beans, black-eyed peas, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, and bell peppers. Baked to perfection under a generous layer of melted Colby Jack cheese, this dish offers a delicious blend of Tex-Mex-inspired flavors perfect for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

2 lbs chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
2 tbsp Italian dressing mix (divided)

Bean and Vegetable Mixture

1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup black eyed peas (drained and rinsed)
1 cup canned fire roasted tomatoes (drained)
1/2 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
1/2 cup bell pepper (diced)
1/4 cup sweet onion (diced)
1/4 cup diced jarred jalapeños (optional)
3 cloves fresh garlic (pressed)
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)

Toppings and Garnish

1 cup Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
1 tbsp cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts flat in a casserole dish and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the Italian dressing mix evenly over the top to infuse the chicken with flavorful herbs and spices.
Prepare the Bean Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the black beans, black-eyed peas, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, sweet onion, optional jalapeños, pressed garlic, extra virgin olive oil, lime juice, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Italian dressing mix. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble and Bake: Spread the bean and vegetable mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts in the casserole dish. Place the dish uncovered on the middle rack of the oven and bake at 375˚F (190˚C) for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F (74˚C), ensuring it is fully cooked.
Add Cheese Topping: Five minutes before the baking time is complete, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Evenly distribute the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the bean and chicken mixture, then return the dish to the oven to melt the cheese and finish cooking.
Garnish and Serve: Once baking is complete, garnish the dish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot over rice or alongside your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy your Cowboy Chicken!

Notes

For added heat, include the optional diced jarred jalapeños in the bean mixture.
Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking for an internal temperature of 165˚F with a meat thermometer.
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.