Description
Southwestern Baked Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring boneless skinless chicken breasts seasoned with smoky spices, topped with cheddar cheese, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime-cilantro garnish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines bold southwestern flavors with simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Chicken and Toppings
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tomatoes, sliced thin
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 6 cloves garlic, sliced thin
- 1 jalapeño, sliced thin
- 1 lime, juiced
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the chicken evenly and ensuring a nicely cooked dish.
- Prepare Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and sea salt to create a flavorful southwestern seasoning blend.
- Season Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Brush them evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mix generously over the chicken to coat all sides.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the seasoned chicken breasts. Layer the thinly sliced tomatoes, red onions, garlic, and jalapeño on top to add fresh flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Finish and Garnish: Once baked, squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken for a bright citrus kick. Garnish with chopped cilantro for an added burst of herbal freshness before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in the slices or add more jalapeño.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- To make the dish dairy-free, omit the cheddar cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern
