One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that packs all the bold, comforting flavors of enchiladas into a quick, fuss-free meal, look no further than this One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet. This recipe combines tender chicken, a rich and smoky sauce, and just the right amount of spice—all cooked together in one pan for an easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a satisfying, flavorful dinner that proves low carb doesn’t mean low flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each plays such an essential role in creating a lively, layered taste and texture. From the creamy sour cream to the smoky spices and tender chicken, every element adds something special to this skillet meal.

• 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps develop a smooth sauce base when melted.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Brings moisture and a subtle savory depth, keeping the chicken juicy.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce with a concentrated tomato flavor and vibrant color.
• 1 tbsp chili powder: Delivers classic enchilada heat and earthiness.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a mellow garlic undertone without overpowering the other spices.
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin: Adds smoky warmth that’s fundamental to Mexican-inspired dishes.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Gives a subtle kick that wakes up the palate beautifully.
• 3/4 cup sour cream: Creamy texture that balances the spices and creates a luscious sauce.
• 1 1/2 lb cooked chicken (cubed or shredded): The hero protein, tender and ready to soak up all those amazing flavors.
• 2 tbsp sweet paprika: Adds a sweet smokiness and a warm red hue to the dish.

How to Make One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Simmer the Broth

Start by melting your butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Once melted, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This step is crucial because it creates the liquid foundation where the spices will bloom and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Whisk in the Tomato Paste and Spices

Next, whisk in the tomato paste along with chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, sweet paprika, and cayenne pepper. Whisking until smooth ensures there are no lumps, creating a velvety sauce that’s bursting with smoky, spicy goodness. This is where the classic enchilada flavor really starts to shine.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream and Chicken to the Skillet

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the sour cream until it integrates fully with the sauce. Then toss in your cooked chicken pieces, coating each bite in that creamy, spicy sauce. The sour cream’s tang cuts through the heat while enriching the texture, making this skillet irresistible.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Finish Cooking

To top it off, sprinkle your favorite melting cheese evenly over the chicken mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit on low heat for about four minutes, just until the cheese melts luxuriously on top. This final step creates the perfect cheesy layer that brings everything together in that classic enchilada skillet style.

How to Serve One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take this dish from great to unforgettable. Try a handful of chopped cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and some diced avocado for creaminess. A scattering of sliced green onions or a little dollop of extra sour cream can also add lovely contrast in flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

While this One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet stands strong on its own, pairing it with some crisp, refreshing sides can elevate your meal. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green veggies like broccoli or asparagus adds a fresh balance to the richness of the skillet.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this skillet with low-carb wraps or lettuce leaves for an easy taco-style dinner. You could also spoon it over cauliflower rice to soak up every bit of that sauce. These creative serving ideas turn the dish into a versatile crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This skillet keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish on hand for longer, you can freeze it in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in intervals, stirring between to keep the sauce creamy and the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken in this recipe?

It’s best to use cooked chicken because this skillet cooks quickly, and raw chicken won’t have enough time to fully cook through. If you only have raw chicken, cook it separately before adding it to the sauce.

Is this dish really low carb?

Yes! This recipe avoids traditional enchilada tortillas and rice, focusing on protein and a creamy sauce, making it a perfect low carb option without sacrificing flavor.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese melt beautifully on top and complement the spices well. Pick your favorite or mix a couple for extra flavor complexity.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a dairy-free buttery spread and substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative to keep things creamy without dairy.

How spicy is this One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet?

The spice level is moderate with a nice warmth from chili powder and cayenne. You can adjust the cayenne to make it milder or spicier, according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet because it truly nails the best parts of enchiladas in a quick, one-pan dinner. It’s flavorful, comforting, and wonderfully simple—everything you want on a busy weeknight when you still want something homemade and satisfying. Once you give it a go, it might just become one of your favorite go-to dinners, too.

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