Are you tired of bland, boring chicken dinners that leave you feeling unsatisfied? Get ready to transform your meal with this mouthwatering Southwest Chicken Marinade that packs a flavor punch like no other! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with zesty lime, bold chili powder, and aromatic spices that will transport your palate straight to the heart of the Southwest. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that takes just 40 minutes from start to finish and will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended and form a smooth marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For best results, marinate for 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be no longer pink in the center and juices should run clear.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
- Slice the chicken breasts and serve them warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or served with sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For the most intense flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more the spices will penetrate the meat.
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Don't guess if your chicken is done! Always check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety.
- Resting is Key: Allow your chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture and makes the meat more tender.
- Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. You can easily double the recipe and store extra portions in the refrigerator for quick meals throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 100mg
