Description
This Southwest Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts seasoned with a flavorful blend of chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and other spices. Quickly seared in coconut oil for a crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that delivers bold southwestern flavors in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken breast (4 pieces, 8 ounces each)
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Dash of cayenne pepper
Cooking Oil
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil (or other high heat oil)
Instructions
- Mix the seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper to create the spice blend.
- Season the chicken: Evenly sprinkle the prepared spice mixture over both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor.
- Heat the oil: Place 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm up before adding the chicken.
- First side cooking: Add the chicken breasts in a single layer to the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until the underside is nicely browned.
- Flip and add oil: Turn the chicken breasts over and add the remaining teaspoon of coconut oil to the skillet to aid in cooking the other side.
- Cook until done: Continue cooking for another 6 to 7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160ºF and the juices run clear.
- Rest the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, cover with aluminum foil, and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked through to 160ºF.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness level.
- Coconut oil can be substituted with avocado or canola oil if preferred.
- Letting chicken rest after cooking ensures juicier results.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or quick dinners.
