The Perfect Southwest Baked Chicken Recipe for Spicy Dinner Joy

Juicy southwest baked chicken brings a vibrant burst of flavors that dance across your taste buds with every delectable bite.

Spices from mexico and the american southwest create a mouthwatering blend of zesty ingredients.

Peppers, cumin, and smoky paprika infuse each tender piece of meat with incredible depth.

My kitchen always feels alive when these bold seasonings start to meld together.

Bold marinades transform simple chicken into an exciting culinary adventure that sparks conversation around the dinner table.

Crisp and golden exterior gives way to succulent meat that promises pure satisfaction.

Jump into this recipe and let your senses explore a delicious southwestern sensation.

Why Southwest Baked Chicken Brings Bold Flavor

• Spice Up Your Meal: Southwestern chicken transforms ordinary dinner into a flavor explosion you'll crave.
• Create a One-Pan Wonder: Skip multiple dishes and complicated cleanup with this streamlined meal that combines protein and vegetables in a single baking dish.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful presentation and mild, crowd-pleasing southwestern flavors that aren't too spicy.
• Nutrition Packed Plate: Lean chicken, vibrant vegetables, and protein-rich ingredients make this a balanced meal that supports healthy eating without sacrificing taste.

Everything You Need For Southwest Baked Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender meat that serves as the main protein base for this southwestern-style dish.

• Southwestern Spice Blend, Salt, Black Pepper: Provides a bold and zesty flavor profile that enhances the overall taste of the chicken.

• Bell Peppers, Corn Kernels, Jalapeños (Optional): Create a colorful and nutritious vegetable medley that adds texture and fresh flavor to the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a tangy base that helps keep the chicken juicy during cooking.

• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy, melted layer of richness to the finished dish.
• Green Onions, Cilantro: Provide a fresh, bright garnish that adds color and a crisp flavor finish.

• Lime Juice: Brings a zesty, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and enhances the overall flavor.

• Cooking Spray: Helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the baking dish during cooking.

How To Cook Southwest Baked Chicken Simply

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to 375°F and lightly spray a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Flavor Explosion

Mix southwestern spices in a small bowl to craft a zesty seasoning blend that will make your chicken sing with excitement.

Step 3: Dress The Chicken

Generously coat each chicken breast with the spice mixture, ensuring every inch is covered in delicious flavor.

Step 4: Arrange The Canvas

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, creating a single layer for even cooking.

Step 5: Build A Veggie Paradise

• Diced bell peppers
• Corn kernels
• Jalapeños (optional for extra kick)

Step 6: Splash With Tomato Goodness

Pour diced tomatoes evenly over the chicken and vegetables, helping to keep everything juicy and moist.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the oven and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 8: Cheese It Up

During the final 5 minutes, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and return to the oven until cheese melts and turns golden.

Step 9: Let It Rest

Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes, letting the juices redistribute and flavors mingle.

Step 10: Finish With Flair

Drizzle fresh lime juice over the dish and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for a bright, zesty finale.

Top Tips For Southwest Baked Chicken

• Prep Perfectly: Use a light cooking spray to prevent chicken from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• Spice It Right: Mix dry spices thoroughly to create a balanced southwestern flavor profile that coats every inch of the chicken.
• Layer with Love: Arrange chicken in a single layer to guarantee even cooking and consistent seasoning distribution.
• Veggie Power Boost: Spread colorful bell peppers, corn, and optional jalapeños between chicken pieces to add nutrition and vibrant texture.
• Melt and Shine: Add shredded cheddar cheese during the final cooking minutes for a golden, gooey topping that elevates the entire dish.

Ways To Change Up Southwest Baked Chicken

• Vegetarian Southwest Casserole: Replace chicken with firm tofu or black beans, maintaining the same spice blend and vegetable mix for a protein-packed meat-free alternative.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Substitute corn and bell peppers with riced cauliflower and zucchini to create a lower-carbohydrate version that keeps the southwestern flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese instead of cheddar, and ensure all other ingredients remain gluten-free and dairy-free for sensitive diets.
• Instant Pot Quick Version: Transfer all ingredients to a pressure cooker, reducing cooking time to 12-15 minutes while preserving the bold southwestern spices and vegetable textures.

Best Sides For Southwest Baked Chicken

• Elevate Southwestern Chicken's Flavor Profile
• Pair with Crisp Margarita: A zesty lime margarita cuts through the dish's richness, complementing the southwestern spices with its tangy, refreshing kick.
• Match with Cilantro-Lime Rice: Create a harmonious side that echoes the dish's bright lime and herb notes, providing a perfect textural and flavor companion.
• Serve alongside Black Bean Salad: Add a protein-packed, cool counterpoint that balances the warm, spicy chicken with earthy beans and fresh vegetables.
• Complement with Mexican Lager: A light, crisp beer like Corona or Modelo neutralizes the dish's heat while enhancing its vibrant southwestern character.

How To Store Southwest Baked Chicken Right

• Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains fresh and flavorful.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months for future quick meals.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warmed to 165°F, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.

Southwest Baked Chicken FAQs

• What type of seasoning is used in this recipe?

The southwestern seasoning blend combines spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and salt to create a bold and zesty flavor profile that enhances the chicken’s taste.

• Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes, you can substitute bell peppers with poblano, anaheim, or even roasted green chiles to add variety and adjust the heat level according to your preference.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, which ensures it’s safe to eat and remains juicy and tender.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as described is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your specific ingredient labels to confirm, especially for spices and canned tomatoes.

Southwest Baked Chicken Recipe

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4.5 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling southwest baked chicken brings spicy Mexican-inspired flavors to your dinner table. Juicy chicken breasts seasoned with bold spices create a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper

Produce and Additional Ingredients

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 0.5 cup corn kernels
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Blend all dry spices in a small bowl, creating a vibrant southwestern seasoning mix that will infuse the chicken with bold, zesty flavors.
3. Thoroughly coat each chicken breast with the spice blend, ensuring an even and generous coverage on all sides.
4. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, creating a single layer for uniform cooking.
5. Scatter diced bell peppers, corn kernels, and optional jalapeños around and between the chicken pieces to create a colorful vegetable medley.
6. Pour the diced tomatoes evenly over the chicken and vegetables, allowing the juices to help keep the meat moist during baking.
7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
8. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and return to the oven until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
10. Finish by drizzling fresh lime juice over the dish and garnishing with chopped green onions and cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

• Adjust spice levels by reducing or eliminating jalapeños for milder palates or adding extra chili powder for heat lovers.
• Swap chicken breasts with tofu or plant-based protein alternatives to create a vegetarian version that maintains the southwestern flavor profile.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and create a more intense flavor crust.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise doneness and prevent overcooking, which can result in dry chicken.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg