Easy 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
Scale
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
