Easy Mexican Chicken
Savor the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this Easy Mexican Chicken recipe, a one-skillet wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with a zesty blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, then seared to golden perfection before simmering in a tangy tomato-lime sauce. Optional add-ins like sweet corn and melted cheddar cheese create customizable layers of taste, while fresh cilantro completes the dish with a burst of herbal freshness. Ready in just 35 minutes, this simple, protein-packed recipe pairs beautifully with rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you're feeding your family or entertaining guests, this Mexican-inspired chicken recipe is sure to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 0.5 cup sweet corn kernels (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the spice blend all over the chicken thighs to ensure they are evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken thighs skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 4-5 minutes until the surface is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes and lime juice. Stir to scrape up any browned bits from the pan for added flavor.
If using, stir in the sweet corn kernels and cook for 2 minutes.
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato mixture.
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chicken with fresh cilantro and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Serve warm with rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1896 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 114.9 g | 147% | |
| Saturated Fat | 35.9 g | 180% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 624 mg | 208% | |
| Sodium | 2377 mg | 103% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.2 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.0 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.3 g | ||
| Protein | 176.6 g | 353% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 589 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 10.5 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 2375 mg | 51% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
