Easy Tex-Mex Inspired Skillet Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This easy Tex-Mex inspired skillet chicken is bursting with bold flavors from a vibrant spice blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers juicy, tender chicken with a zesty lime finish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast tenderloins (tendon removed)
- 1.5 tbsp chili powder
- 1.5 tsp cumin
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 lime (juiced)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the chicken tenderloins by removing the white tendon from each tender.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and kosher salt to make the spice blend.
- Step 3: Season the chicken breast tenderloins on all sides with the spice blend, coating them thoroughly.
- Step 4: Preheat a frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat and spray with olive oil spray.
- Step 5: Cook the chicken on both sides for several minutes until a golden brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Step 6: Remove the chicken from the pan and finish by squeezing the juice of one lime over the cooked chicken.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice blend and lime juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with warm tortillas, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro for a delicious Tex-Mex meal.
- Substitute chicken tenderloins with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
Storage
Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or lime juice to keep it moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and proper browning.
What can I serve with this Tex-Mex skillet chicken?
This chicken pairs well with rice, beans, sautéed vegetables, or wrapped in tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, and sour cream.
PrintEasy Tex-Mex Inspired Skillet Chicken Recipe
This Easy Tex-Mex Inspired Skillet Chicken features tender chicken breast tenderloins seasoned with a robust blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and other spices, pan-seared to a juicy, flavorful perfection. Finished with fresh lime juice, this quick and versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, delivering bold southwestern flavors without the fuss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast tenderloins (tendon removed)
Spice Blend
- 1.5 tbsp chili powder
- 1.5 tsp cumin
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp kosher salt
Other
- 1 lime (juiced)
- Olive oil spray for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken tenderloins: Carefully remove the white tendon from each chicken tenderloin. This step ensures a tender, easy-to-eat chicken piece without any chewy bits.
- Make the spice blend: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and kosher salt to create the flavorful seasoning mix.
- Season the chicken: Coat all sides of the chicken tenderloins evenly with the prepared spice blend, ensuring every piece is well covered for maximum flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Preheat a frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat and spray with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in the hot skillet and cook for several minutes on each side until a golden brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finish with lime juice: Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and immediately squeeze fresh lime juice over the top to add a bright, tangy finish that complements the Tex-Mex spices.
Notes
- Removing the tendon from tenderloins improves texture and makes eating more enjoyable.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
- Feel free to customize the spice blend by adding cayenne pepper for more heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- This chicken pairs excellently with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
Keywords: Tex-Mex chicken, skillet chicken, easy chicken recipe, chicken tenderloins, quick dinner, spicy chicken
