Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by laying the chicken breast flat in a casserole dish. Make sure to space them evenly for proper cooking. Sprinkle one tablespoon of the italian dressing seasoning over the top. This seasoning is going to infuse the chicken with flavor, so don’t skimp!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the black beans, black eyed peas, fire roasted tomatoes, corn, onion, bell pepper, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and the remaining tablespoon of dressing mix. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You should see a colorful mixture that looks as good as it tastes.
- Spread the bean mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken in the casserole dish. Make sure to cover the chicken fully so it absorbs all those delicious flavors during baking.
- Next, bake the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at 375˚F for 45 to 55 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the internal temperature of the chicken to reach 165˚F. The chicken will be beautifully cooked, and the top will have a lovely golden color.
- Five minutes before the baking time is up, take the dish out of the oven. This is the moment to sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese evenly on top. It’s going to melt into an ooey-gooey layer of deliciousness, enhancing the texture and taste.
- Return the dish to the oven for those last few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble, creating an irresistible topping. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is golden and perfectly melted.
- Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This will help the flavors settle. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. It adds a nice, fresh touch.
- Serve the Cowboy Chicken over rice for a comforting meal or pair it with your favorite side dishes. I love how versatile this dish is, making it suitable for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. This makes for a quick and easy lunch option the next day!
If you have leftovers or want to make it ahead of time, this recipe freezes well. You can freeze it for up to 6 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
If you’re feeding a crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled. Conversely, if you’re cooking for one or two, feel free to halve the recipe.
While colby jack cheese is delicious, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor.