Southwest Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to please a crowd, Southwest Chicken is it! I remember the first time I made this for friends during a summer barbecue. The aroma of the spices wafting through the air was intoxicating, and I couldn’t wait to serve it. As I grilled the chicken, the vibrant colors of the spices made everything feel festive and inviting. It’s such an easy recipe, which means you can spend more time enjoying the company of your friends and family rather than slaving away in the kitchen. With juicy pieces of chicken marinated in a zesty blend of spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients for Southwest Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Southwest Chicken, simplicity reigns supreme. Each component plays a vital role in creating the overall flavor profile of the dish. The star of the meal is undoubtedly the chicken, which absorbs the delicious marinade, making it tender and juicy. The olive oil helps in achieving that perfect sear, while the array of spices brings the Southwest flair into every bite.

• 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast – The main ingredient that provides the protein base for this dish. It’s lean and cooks beautifully when marinated.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – Adds richness and moisture to the chicken, helping the spices adhere.
• 1 lime – Adds brightness and acidity that enhances the flavors of the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika – Provides a smoky flavor that is characteristic of Southwest cuisine.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – Offers an earthy note that complements the other spices perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon light brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the spices.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the chicken with a savory depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a hint of herbaceousness to the marinade.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken and spices.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper – Adds a gentle kick to the dish.

How to Cook Southwest Chicken

Cooking Southwest Chicken is a simple and enjoyable process. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create restaurant-quality flavors right in your kitchen. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish to serve. Let’s dive right in!

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lime, 1 teaspoon of lime zest, and all the spices: 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of light brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Slice each chicken breast in half widthwise to create four thinner pieces. This step helps them cook evenly and quickly.
3. Lightly pound the chicken to an even thickness using a meat mallet or a rolling pin. This ensures that they cook uniformly.
4. Add the chicken to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Make sure each piece is well covered.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 to 10 hours. This marinating step is essential for flavor development.
6. When you’re ready to cook, you can choose to grill the chicken or use a skillet. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
7. If you’re using a skillet, heat a large non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer.
8. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 160°F or until the juices run clear.
9. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or dicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it juicier.

Helpful Notes about Southwest Chicken

Even the best recipes can benefit from a few helpful notes. Here are some tips for making your Southwest Chicken turn out perfectly every time.

• Storage: To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken before cooking. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of smoked paprika or omit the pepper.
• Meal Prep: This chicken can be made ahead of time and served in wraps, salads, or as a taco filling for quick lunches.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Southwest Chicken, the options are endless. Here are some delicious pairings:

• Fluffy Rice: Serve it over warm, fluffy rice for a comforting meal. You can also try cilantro lime rice for an extra burst of flavor.
• Tortillas: Wrap it up in warm tortillas for tasty tacos. Add toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado for an irresistible treat.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty dressing makes for a light and refreshing side.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled corn, peppers, and zucchini complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
• Guacamole: A side of guacamole is always a hit! The creaminess pairs well with the spiced chicken.
• Dips: Serve with salsa or a spicy yogurt dip for added flavor and texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Southwest Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the wonderful flavors for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

Southwest Chicken

The ultimate flavor-packed meal, Southwest Chicken is your go-to for an easy weeknight dinner! With its juicy chicken marinated in a zesty blend of spices, it's a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for tacos, wraps, or simply served with rice, you’ll want to make this tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Equipment

• large bowl
• Large Skillet

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp oil, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp lime zest, and all the seasonings until smooth.
2. Slice each chicken breast in half widthwise to make 4 thinner pieces. Lightly pound to even thickness.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8–10 hours.
4. To grill chicken, see note 1. Otherwise, heat a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer.
5. Cook 3–4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through (160°F or juices run clear).
6. Transfer to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or dicing.

Notes

• Tip 1: Preheat grill to medium-high (450°F) and oil grates well (I soak a paper towel in oil and rub it on with tongs—don’t skip this). Lift chicken from marinade with tongs, letting excess drip off. Grill 4–6 minutes per side, flipping once, until nicely charred and chicken reaches 160°F. It should release easily when ready to flip. Cook time may vary by chicken size and grill heat.
• Tip 2: This chicken is best hot. Got leftovers? I like them in tacos, wraps, or soup. Keep stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.