Name: Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless); 1 orange (juiced); 2 limes (juiced, divided); 1 jalapeño (minced or sliced); 6 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon salt (for marinade); 1 jalapeño (minced); 1 yellow bell pepper (diced); 1 orange bell pepper (diced); 1 red onion (diced); 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lime (juiced); Pinch of salt; 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 4 slices pepper jack cheese; 1 tablespoon cilantro (freshly chopped); Splash of olive oil (for searing)

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and gives you that perfect balance of tangy citrus, spicy heat, and melty cheese goodness, then the Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. This skillet meal brings together juicy, tender chicken breasts marinated in zesty orange and lime juice, accented with a kick from jalapeño, and finished with oozy Pepper Jack cheese melted to perfection. Trust me, it’s a delightful experience of fresh, bold Southwestern flavors all in one colorful pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four raw chicken fillets placed side by side in a white rectangular tray at the top center. Below them, there are small white bowls with chopped orange bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, green jalapeno pieces, diced red onions, and chopped green herbs, each filling separate bowls spread evenly across the lower half of the image. There is a single green jalapeno pepper lying horizontally in the middle. A square white dish holds peeled garlic cloves next to a white bowl containing light green olive oil. A small plate with mixed dry spices including black pepper, chili flakes, salt, paprika, and cumin is near the center. On the left side, slices of light yellow pepper jack cheese are neatly stacked next to a small speckled bowl of minced garlic. Two halves of fresh orange and a whole lime are positioned around the ingredients. The entire setup sits on a dark wooden table with a white marbled background visible at the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients. Each one contributes a unique element—from the bright citrus juices that tenderize and infuse the chicken, to the sweet crunch of bell peppers, and the fiery warmth of jalapeños that keeps the palate engaged. Let’s break down these key components:

4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless): The hearty base of the recipe offering lean protein that soaks up all the zesty flavors.
1 orange (juiced): Adds vibrant citrus sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
2 limes (juiced): Brings a sharp, refreshing tang that brightens the marinade and sauté.
1 jalapeño (minced or sliced): Controls the perfect level of heat and adds a fresh peppery note.
6 cloves garlic (minced): Provides deep, savory richness throughout the dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in sautéing and searing, while adding a subtle fruity undertone.
1 yellow bell pepper (diced): Adds a splash of sweetness and vibrant color.
1 orange bell pepper (diced): Intensifies the colorful look and offers a mellow, fruity crunch.
1 red onion (diced): Brings a subtle sharpness and lovely texture contrast when sautéed.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the tang and heat.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a familiar warmth and mild heat layer.
1 teaspoon ground paprika: Gives a smoky undertone that ties the spices together.
½ teaspoon ground cumin: Provides a nutty, earthy complexity to the seasoning.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Boosts the spice level with a hint of fiery punch.
4 slices Pepper Jack cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken, lending a creamy, spicy touch.
1 tablespoon freshly chopped cilantro: Offers a fresh herbaceous lift as a finishing garnish.

How to Make Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken

Start by juicing one orange and one lime into a bowl and mixing in minced garlic, sliced jalapeños, and salt. This marinade is masterful because the citrus tenderizes the chicken while infusing vibrant flavor layers. Place your chicken breasts in a casserole dish, pour over this tangy mixture, cover, and pop it in the fridge for two hours to soak up all those delicious notes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and toss in minced jalapeños, yellow and orange bell peppers, diced red onion, and garlic. The sizzling vegetables will soften and release their sweetness while the lime juice and a pinch of salt added midway brighten the flavors even more. This stage bursts the dish with colorful texture and fresh aroma.

Step 3: Season and Sear the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Remove the chicken from the marinade and mix together salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Rub this spice blend evenly over the chicken breasts. Add a splash of olive oil to your hot skillet and sear the chicken for about four minutes on each side, creating a beautiful golden crust packed with that bold Baja seasoning.

Step 4: Combine and Bake with Cheese

Return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet, spreading them around and on top of the chicken. Lay a slice of Pepper Jack cheese over each breast and place the entire skillet in the oven for 10 minutes. The cheese will melt into gooey, spicy perfection, making this Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe irresistibly creamy and rich.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the skillet for a bright herbal finish. This final touch not only adds color but enhances the fresh, vibrant flavor profile of the dish.

How to Serve Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe

In a white ceramic baking dish with blue handles, there are four raw, pale pink chicken breasts placed in one layer, partially covered by a thick yellow marinade with minced garlic. Green jalapeño slices with seeds are scattered on and around the chicken, adding a pop of color. The dish sits on a white marbled texture surface, with a metal garlic press visible at the top left and a knife with a light wooden handle at the bottom left. The scene is well lit, showing the fresh and simple ingredients clearly photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is a must to brighten the robust flavors, but you can also add a squeeze of lime or some sliced avocado for creaminess and added freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions can further elevate the experience.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs beautifully with a side of cilantro lime rice or warm corn tortillas to scoop up all the flavorful juices and melted cheese. A crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or Mexican street corn salad provides a lovely contrast in texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken and vegetables directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in. Alternatively, plate the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa and drizzle with extra lime juice for a gourmet touch. For a fiesta vibe, turn it into tacos by slicing the chicken and topping with pico de gallo and avocado slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Baja Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even better meal the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you separate the chicken and vegetables from the cheese before freezing. Wrap tightly and store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the skillet or portions in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven method better preserves the texture and flavor, especially the melted cheese.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, though you may want to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they cook through without drying out.

How spicy is this Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe?

The heat is moderate and balanced, mainly coming from jalapeños and red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the spice level by using fewer jalapeños or skipping the red pepper flakes.

What if I don’t have Pepper Jack cheese?

Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar can be great substitutes. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped green chilies to the cheese topping.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid any processed ingredients that may contain gluten. Always check labels if unsure.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Definitely! Marinating overnight will intensify the citrus and spice flavors even more, making the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This Baja Chicken Skillet with Citrus and Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe is a celebration of fresh, bright ingredients paired with bold, comforting spices and creamy cheese. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that never fails to impress whether for a weeknight dinner or casual weekend feast. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it a new favorite in your recipe rotation!