Incorporating Mexican flavors into your cooking can add a delightful twist to your meals. One of my favorite dishes is the Baked Mexican Chicken Breast. It’s a quick and easy recipe that is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Baked Mexican Chicken Breast
This Baked Mexican Chicken Breast recipe is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on its own, served with your favorite side dish, or used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or salads. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
ol> 9. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). 10. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. 11. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 12. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides. 13. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, rubbing it in gently. 14. Bake the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). 15. Remove the chicken breasts from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This Baked Mexican Chicken Breast recipe can be prepared quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of spices adds a touch of heat and smokiness to the chicken, elevating its flavor to new heights.
How to Prepare:
To prepare this tasty Baked Mexican Chicken Breast, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, mix together the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This spice mixture will be the secret to infusing the chicken with delicious Mexican flavors.
Next, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil to ensure it stays moist during baking. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken, gently rubbing it in to cover every surface.
Now that your chicken breasts are seasoned and ready, it’s time to bake them in the preheated oven. Cook the chicken for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.
Once the chicken breasts are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in tender and succulent chicken.
Servings:
This Baked Mexican Chicken Breast recipe serves 4 people. However, you can easily adjust the quantities to accommodate more or fewer guests. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that can be easily scaled up or down.
Nutrition Facts:
Each serving of this Baked Mexican Chicken Breast contains approximately 200 calories, 8 grams of fat, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and 30 grams of protein. It’s a lean and nutritious option that fits well into a balanced diet.
Tips:
Here are a few tips to make your Baked Mexican Chicken Breast even more delicious:
- Marinate the chicken breasts for a few hours before baking to enhance the flavors.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the cooked chicken for a vibrant burst of citrus flavor.
- Serve the chicken with your favorite Mexican-inspired sides, such as rice, beans, or a refreshing salsa.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q: Can I substitute the spices with a pre-made taco seasoning?
A: Absolutely! If you have a favorite taco seasoning blend, feel free to use it in place of the individual spices listed in the recipe.
Q: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mixture.
In conclusion, this Baked Mexican Chicken Breast recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Give it a try and transport your taste buds to Mexico with every bite!
