Name: Irresistibly Easy One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil.); 3 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced preferred.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Swap with red onion if desired.); 1 pound Ground Chicken (Can be replaced with ground turkey or vegan alternatives.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Curry powder can be a substitute.); 2 teaspoons Chili Powder (Adjust to taste or substitute with smoked paprika.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Use smoked paprika for richer flavor.); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 medium Zucchini (Can substitute with bell peppers.); 1 cup Bell Peppers (Any color or seasonal vegetable can be used.); 4 whole Whole Wheat Tortillas (Gluten-free or corn tortillas work as substitutes.); 1 cup Red Enchilada Sauce (Store-bought or homemade.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Opt for dairy-free cheese for vegan version.); 1 medium Avocado (Can substitute with guacamole.); 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (Dairy-free alternatives can be used.); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Can swap with finely diced chives.); to taste Chili Flakes (Adjust according to spice preference.)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy meal that feels like a hug on a plate. My One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet delivers just that—a delightful fusion of flavor and convenience that transforms a hectic weeknight into a culinary escape. When work demands leave little time to whip up a complex dinner, this 30-minute dish swoops in to save the day without sacrificing taste.

With its smoky notes and vibrant vegetables, this skillet meal mimics the beloved flavors of traditional enchiladas while keeping things effortlessly easy. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Designed to cater to gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free diets, it’s a go-to for anyone needing a delicious, hearty meal that accommodates various dietary needs.

So, if your week has been a whirlwind and you’re craving something wholesome yet quick, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this flavorful fiesta!

Why is One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet so great?

Effortless Cooking: This dish is made in just one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Flavor Fusion: Rich spices and vibrant veggies come together, creating a mouthwatering experience that’ll transport you to Mexico.

Diet-Friendly: With options to make it gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free, everyone can enjoy this satisfying meal.

Quick Meal Solution: At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect answer for busy weeknights when hunger strikes.

Impress Guests: Its stunning presentation and hearty flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to wow friends and family.

Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients for what you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any kitchen.

Ingredients for One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet

• Gather these essentials for a delightful dish!

For the Base

Olive Oil – Provides essential fat for cooking; can substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; freshly minced is preferred for optimal taste.
Yellow Onion – Contributes sweetness; swap with red onion for a sharper taste.
Ground Chicken – Main protein source; can be replaced with ground turkey or a vegan alternative.
Ground Cumin – Adds earthy warmth; curry powder can be a different flavor option.
Chili Powder – Provides characteristic spiciness; adjust to taste or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder heat.
Paprika – Enhances color and flavor; use smoked paprika for richer depth.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your preference.

For the Veggies

Zucchini – Adds bulk and nutrition; substitute with bell peppers for varied textures.
Bell Peppers – Provide sweetness and color; use any color or seasonal vegetable for variety.

For the Enchiladas

Whole Wheat Tortillas – Form the base of the enchilada; gluten-free varieties or corn tortillas work as substitutes.
Red Enchilada Sauce – Provides moisture and flavor; use store-bought or homemade for convenience.
Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess; opt for dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

For Serving

Avocado – Fresh topping that adds creaminess; substitute with guacamole for convenience.
Plain Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – Adds tanginess; can be replaced with dairy-free alternatives.
Green Onions – Fresh garnish for added flavor; swap with finely diced chives if desired.
Chili Flakes – Adds additional heat; adjust according to your preference for spice.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a scrumptious One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet that combines both taste and convenience!

How to Make One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet

Heat Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 5 minutes.
Brown Chicken: Stir in the ground chicken, breaking it up as it cooks. Sauté until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
Add Veggies: Incorporate the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, along with the chopped zucchini and bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Incorporate Tortillas: Cut the whole wheat tortillas into strips and add them to the skillet, along with the red enchilada sauce and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This gives the tortillas time to absorb flavors and soften.
Broil the Cheese: Preheat your oven broiler. Uncover the skillet, top with the remaining cheddar cheese, and broil for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve and Garnish: Once done, serve your delicious skillet topped with fresh avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and green onions for garnish.

Optional: Add a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet?

To elevate your meal experience and make every bite memorable, consider these delightful pairings that both complement and enhance your main dish.

Crispy Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the spicy flavors of the skillet, creating a delicious contrast. A warm slice slathered with butter makes for the perfect sidekick.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens topped with a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch. This balance of textures brightens up the hearty enchiladas and offers a healthy dose of veggies.
Creamy Avocado Rice: The creamy texture of avocado mixed with fluffy rice enhances the meal’s flavor profile. It acts as a soothing counterpart to the dish’s warm spices.
Charred Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob, drizzled with lime and chili powder, infuses a touch of summer sweetness. A popular Mexican street food, it’s a fun and vibrant addition to your table.
Tangy Salsa: A bowl of fresh salsa or pico de gallo adds a burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese. The brightness of tomatoes, onion, and cilantro uplifts each bite.
Chilled Agua Fresca: Sip on a refreshing agua fresca made from fruits like watermelon or cantaloupe. This light drink balances the heat of the enchiladas, making your experience even more enjoyable.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a creamy chocolate mousse made from ripe avocados. It’s rich with flavor yet so light, making it an unmissable finale for your meal.

These pairings not only enhance the experience but also bring a warm, communal feel to the table, perfect for those busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and season the ground chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store the prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, keep the tortillas separate until you’re ready to cook, ensuring they don’t become soggy. When it’s time to serve, simply heat your skillet, add the prepped chicken and veggies, incorporate the tortillas and enchilada sauce, and follow the usual instructions to simmer and broil. You’ll have a delicious, effortless meal that tastes just as fresh and delightful, making busy weeknights a breeze!

One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish truly your own!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners. Just check the label for the best quality!
Vegan: Swap out ground chicken for cooked lentils or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. This adds hearty nutrition while keeping it entirely animal product-free.
Dairy-Free: Replace cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy baggage.
Veggie-Boosted: Add in extra veggies like corn, black beans, or spinach to enhance nutrition and flavor. The more, the merrier!
Smoky Delight: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika and add a touch of chipotle for a spicy, smoky flavor explosion.
Creamy Twist: Instead of avocado, try a dollop of cashew cream or homemade guacamole as a fresh topping. Both add a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dish!
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or increase the chili flakes for a fiery version that wakes up your taste buds.
Cruz Mexicano: Add a handful of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving for a refreshing twist that complements the rich flavors of the enchiladas.

Expert Tips for One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet

Skillet Size Matters: Ensure your skillet is spacious enough to hold all ingredients for even cooking and to prevent any overflow.
Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye on the cheese while broiling; broiler strengths vary, and you don’t want your delicious enchiladas to burn.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute ground chicken with cooked lentils or plant-based proteins to tailor your One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet for vegan diets.
Adjust Spice Levels: Taste test your chili powder before adding; adjust the amount according to your heat preference for a meal everyone will love.
Tortilla Texture: For a less mushy texture, sauté the tortilla strips for a minute in the skillet before adding sauce—this helps maintain their integrity.
Meal Prep Bonus: Prepare the base in advance and store in the fridge, then add cheese and broil fresh when ready to serve for an effortless weeknight meal.

How to Store and Freeze One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet

Fridge: Store the One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cooled skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop.

Reheating: To maintain the dish’s textures, reheat on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally. You may add a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out.

Serving Tip: Garnish freshly when serving to ensure vibrant flavors, especially if using avocado or yogurt, to keep them fresh and appealing.

One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking zucchini and bell peppers, look for ones that are firm with smooth skin and vibrant color. For zucchini, avoid any with dark spots all over, as this indicates overripeness. For bell peppers, choose ones that feel heavy for their size and have no wrinkles. Fresh ingredients will elevate your One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet.

How can I store leftovers of my One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet?
Very simple! Store the leftover One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve its flavors. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Can I freeze the One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet?
Of course! To freeze, let the skillet cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of water or extra enchilada sauce can help maintain moisture and flavor.

What if I have allergies to certain ingredients?
No worries! Substitute ground chicken with a plant-based protein like lentils or a vegan meat alternative if you follow a vegan diet. For those with dairy allergies, use dairy-free cheese instead of cheddar, and opt for a dairy-free yogurt or simply skip the sour cream topping. This makes the One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet versatile and accommodating for various dietary needs.

How do I prevent the tortillas from getting mushy?
Great question! To keep your tortillas from becoming too soft, you can sauté the tortilla strips in the skillet for a minute before adding the sauce. This pre-cooking step helps maintain their texture and keeps them slightly crisp even after absorbing some of the enchilada sauce during cooking. Enjoying perfectly balanced textures is key to a satisfying meal!

What should I do if I find the dish too spicy for my taste?
If you’ve found the flavor profile a bit too spicy for your liking, try adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving; it balances the heat beautifully. You can also add a pinch of sugar to the dish to counteract the spiciness, or reduce the amount of chili powder or eliminate it altogether the next time you make it. The beauty of the One Pan Lazy Enchilada Skillet is its adaptability, so feel free to cater it to your taste!