Easy Southwest Chicken Recipe
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please visit my disclosure page.
This savory Southwest Chicken features the perfect blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, onion powder, and paprika that delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, or cooked in an Instant Pot, this easy southwest chicken recipe is perfect for southwest chicken salads, tacos, southwest chicken wraps, or served alongside rice and vegetables.
This chicken is so simple to prepare, especially if you already have the southwestern seasoning mix made ahead of time, and it’s also quite versatile.
Juicy, delicious chicken that is ready in less than 15 minutes is the perfect meal. You can’t beat that for an easy dinner now can you?
What is Southwest flavor?
Southwest flavor refers to the distinctive and bold taste profile inspired by the cuisine of the southwestern United States, particularly states like Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of California and Colorado.
Southwest cuisine is known for its fusion of flavors influenced by Native American, Mexican, and Spanish culinary traditions. The flavor profile is characterized by a harmonious blend of bold and savory taste, with a hint of smokiness and spice.
What you’ll need
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer.
- Southwest seasoning
- Olive Oil
- Chicken broth or stock if cooking in a pressure cooker
Southwest Seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Chili powder – Substitute ancho or chipotle (more heat and smoky flavor)
- Paprika regular or smoked
- Cumin
- Black pepper
- Sea salt – optional
Check out the printable recipe card below for the complete recipe and detailed instructions.
How to make Southwest Chicken
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound chicken until even. This will help the chicken to cook more evenly.
Sprinkle both sides of the boneless skinless chicken breast halves with Southwest Seasoning.
Note: The more seasoning you use, the stronger – or should I say spicier, the chicken will be. Just keep that in mind!
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear. Internal temperature should read 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
Transfer chicken to a large plate, cover with aluminum foil, and allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Slice or shred the chicken for salads and wraps, or cut into four equal pieces to make Southwest Chicken Burgers/Sandwiches.
See, I told you it was versatile!
What sides go well with southwest chicken?
Common sides include steamed white rice, black beans, fresh corn, avocado, salsa, and a variety of fresh vegetables.
Can southwest chicken be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken in advance, wrap in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator, or even cook it ahead of time and reheat it when needed.
Storage & Leftovers
Allow chicken to cool completely, then place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, place cooled chicken in zipper topped freezer bags and store in the freezer for 3 to 6 months.
Can I make southwest chicken in an Instant Pot?
Yes, this is a super easy option. Pour one-cup of chicken broth into the liner/pan to your pressure cooker. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pressure cooker. Secure lid, make sure the “knob” is in the “Sealing” position, select “Manual/Pressure Cook” and set time for 8 minutes using the + or – buttons.
When the Instant Pot beeps, allow the pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes before opening. If the pressure has not dropped completely, turn the pressure release valve to release the remaining steam.
More southwest chicken recipes
Just in case you missed them above, here are some great options for family dinner time|
- Southwest Chicken Salad – with four variations
- Southwest Chicken Wraps
- Paleo Southwest Chicken Tenders – with almond flour
Did you try this recipe? I’d love to see it!
Tag @cookingwithcurls on Instagram & Facebook and leave a ⭐️⭐⭐⭐⭐ review below!
Enjoy!!
Southwest Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon southwest seasoning (or more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Southwest Seasoning
- 0.5 tablespoon chili powder substitute ancho or chipotle
- 0.5 tablespoon garlic powder
- 0.5 tablespoon onion powder
- 0.5 tablespoon paprika regular or smoked
- 0.25 tablespoon cumin
- 0.25 tablespoon black pepper use white pepper for more heat
- 0.13 tablespoon sea salt optional – quarter tablespoon
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound chicken until even. This will help the chicken to cook more evenly.
- Mix the southwest seasoning together in a small bowl and sprinkle both sides of the boneless skinless chicken breast halves.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear. Internal temperature should read 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Transfer chicken to a large plate, cover with aluminum foil, and allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Slice or shred the chicken for salads and wraps, or cut into four equal pieces to make Southwest Chicken Burgers/Sandwiches.
Notes
- The more seasoning you use, the stronger – or should I say spicier, the chicken will be. Just keep that in mind!
- You can season the chicken in advance, wrap in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator, or even cook it ahead of time and reheat it when needed.
- Allow chicken to cool completely, then place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, place cooled chicken in zipper topped freezer bags and store in the freezer for 3 to 6 months.
- See original post for Instant Pot instructions.
I love Southwest flavors — this chicken would make any dish so delicious!
I signed up a while ago. I received your new posts and recipes for a while, and then it stopped. Could you please put me back on your email list? Thank you very much.