Southwest Baked Chicken Tenderloins
Southwest Baked Chicken Tenderloins deliver smoky, spicy flavors with minimal effort. This easy recipe features a bold Southwest spice rub and juicy baked chicken, perfect for quick dinners or meal prep. Versatile and healthy, it pairs well with rice bowls, salads, or wraps.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner, Chicken, Healthy
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwest, American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon table salt (or ¼ teaspoon if sensitive)
½ teaspoon chipotle powder (swap with chili powder for milder flavor)
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 to 1 ¼ pounds chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast cut into strips)
Juice of ½ lime (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line or grease a baking sheet.
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Mix salt, chipotle powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder in a bowl.
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Pat chicken dry, drizzle with olive oil, and rub to coat evenly.
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Sprinkle spice rub over chicken, coating all sides.
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Arrange chicken on baking sheet in a single layer. Bake 15–20 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F.
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Optional: squeeze lime juice over chicken before serving.
Notes
Substitute chicken breasts cut into strips if needed.
Adjust spice heat by swapping chipotle for chili powder or adding cayenne.
Serve with avocado salsa, corn salad, or black beans for a Southwest meal.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for brightness.
Marinate chicken for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
