Bring bold, zesty flavors to your dinner table with this Southwest Chicken Breasts recipe! Featuring juicy, boneless chicken breasts seasoned with a vibrant blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano, this dish is a celebration of smoky Southwest spices. First seared to golden perfection and then oven-baked to lock in moisture, the chicken is finished with a refreshing squeeze of lime and optional fresh cilantro for a pop of brightness. Perfect as a centerpiece for tacos, rice bowls, or served with grilled vegetables, this quick and easy recipe is ready in just 35 minutes and offers a healthy, protein-packed meal that the whole family will love. Whether you're meal prepping or preparing a simple dinner, these Southwest Chicken Breasts are bursting with bold flavor and versatility.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and ground black pepper.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and generously rub the spice mixture all over each chicken breast, ensuring even coating.
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown. This step locks in flavor and creates a slight crust.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven, squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken breasts, and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve alongside your favorite sides like seasoned rice, black beans, or a crisp salad.
Calories |
1472 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.1 g | 69% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.4 g | 57% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 592 mg | 197% | |
| Sodium | 1758 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 16.4 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.5 g | ||
| Protein | 218.5 g | 437% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 160 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 10.3 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 2071 mg | 44% | |
*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.