Baja Chicken: The Ultimate Baja Chicken with Sauteed Vegetables Recipe

Introduction to Baja Chicken

Baja Chicken with Sauteed Vegetables is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transports your taste buds straight to the sunny coasts of Mexico. This dish combines juicy, marinated chicken breasts with a colorful medley of sautéed vegetables, creating a feast that is both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and delightful flavors.

A Personal Story Behind My Baja Chicken Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy hearty meals together. One of our favorites was a dish inspired by the coastal flavors of Baja California. This recipe brings back cherished memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of cooking together. Now, I want to share this delicious Baja Chicken recipe with you, hoping it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.

What Makes This Baja Chicken Recipe Special?

This Baja Chicken recipe stands out not just for its vibrant flavors but also for its ease of preparation. The marinade—made with fresh citrus juices, jalapeños, and garlic—infuses the chicken with a delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the sautéed vegetables. The addition of pepper jack cheese adds a creamy, spicy kick that takes the dish to the next level. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

The Full Baja Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• For the Marinade:
  • Juice of 1 orange
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 jalapeño, minced or sliced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
• Sauteed Vegetables:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 orange bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
• Additional Ingredients:
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 4 slices pepper jack cheese
  • 1 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro
  • A splash of olive oil

Instructions

1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts in a casserole dish or bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the orange juice, lime juice, minced jalapeño, minced garlic, and salt to create a flavorful marinade. Pour this mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. While the chicken marinates, heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Sauté the minced jalapeño, diced yellow and orange bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic for about 5 minutes until they’re tender. Squeeze lime juice over the vegetables, add a pinch of salt, and continue to sauté for an additional 3 minutes. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
5. Once the chicken has marinated, season it with a mix of salt, black pepper, ground paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes for added flavor.
6. In the same skillet over high heat, sear the chicken for approximately 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step will lock in the juices and create a delicious crust.
7. After searing, return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet, placing them around the chicken breasts.
8. Top each chicken breast with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Baja Chicken

Baja Chicken with Sauteed Vegetables is versatile and can be served in various ways. Consider serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also pair it with tortilla chips and salsa for a fun twist or serve it in tacos with your favorite toppings. For those who enjoy a little extra spice, feel free to add more jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables. This dish can easily be adapted to suit your personal taste preferences, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baja Chicken

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before to save time. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before cooking.

What sides go well with Baja Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or even grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.

How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again.

Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder cheese, feel free to use mozzarella or cheddar instead of pepper jack.

Recipe Stats

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 320
• Servings: 4

Baja Chicken with Sauteed Vegetables

A flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken breasts and colorful sautéed vegetables, topped with pepper jack cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet Ideal for searing and baking.

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 each boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup lime juice
• 2 each jalapeños
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 each yellow bell pepper
• 1 each orange bell pepper
• 1 each red onion
• 1 tbsp cilantro freshly chopped
• 4 slices pepper jack cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp ground paprika
• 1 2 ground cumin
• 1 4 red pepper flakes

Instructions

 

• Place the chicken breasts in a casserole dish or bowl.
• Mix orange juice, lime juice, minced jalapeño, minced garlic, and salt to create the marinade.
• Pour the marinade over the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours.
• In a preheated cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, sauté olive oil, minced jalapeño, diced bell peppers, red onion, and garlic for about 5 minutes. Squeeze lime juice over the vegetables, add a pinch of salt, and sauté for an additional 3 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F.
• Season the chicken with a mix of salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes.
• In the same skillet over high heat, sear the chicken for 4 minutes per side. Add the sautéed vegetables back to the skillet around the chicken breasts.
• Place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each chicken breast and bake in the oven for 10 minutes.
• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or jalapeños to suit your taste.

Keyword Baja Chicken with Sauteed Vegetables Recipe