Here’s a delicious recipe for Spicy Southwest Chicken that combines bold flavors with a touch of heat:
Serving size and preparation time:
This recipe makes 4 servings of Spicy Southwest Chicken.
The total preparation time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, with 20-25 minutes of active preparation time and 5-7 minutes of cooking time per chicken breast.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Add the red bell pepper, onion, garlic, and jalapeno pepper to the same pan and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Serve the chicken over the spicy vegetable mixture, garnished with additional cilantro, if desired.
Note: You can adjust the spiciness of this recipe to your liking by using more or less jalapeno pepper or by using a different type of chili pepper. Additionally, you can serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over rice, quinoa, or another grain for a complete meal.
Serving and garnishing suggestions:
- Spicy Southwest Chicken is a hearty and flavorful dish that is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving and garnishing suggestions:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Tortillas: Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture inside warm flour or corn tortillas for a delicious wrap.
- Salad: Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over a bed of mixed greens for a light and healthy option.
- Avocado: Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sliced avocado for a creamy and cool contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Cheese: Sprinkle each serving with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a cheesy and comforting addition.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish each serving with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or chopped fresh parsley for a bright and flavorful finish.
These are just a few serving and garnishing suggestions to enhance the flavor and texture of this delicious dish. Get creative and find your favorite combination to enjoy!
Spicy Southwest Chicken is a popular meal for a few reasons:
- Flavor: This dish is packed with bold and delicious flavors, from the spicy chili powder and cumin to the sweet and tender bell peppers and onions. The combination of spices and vegetables creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that is hard to resist.
- Versatility: This dish can be served in a variety of ways, from over rice or quinoa to inside warm tortillas, making it a versatile and convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
- Nutritious: This recipe features a variety of nutritious ingredients, including lean chicken breast, fiber-rich black beans, and antioxidant-rich vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes. It’s a delicious and satisfying way to get a good serving of nutrients into your diet.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is relatively easy to prepare and can be made in one pan, making it a quick and convenient option for busy nights.
These factors, combined with its delicious flavor, make Spicy Southwest Chicken a popular meal for many people. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that is also good for you!