Southwest Chicken Tenderloins are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together bold Southwest seasonings with tender chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these tenderloins are seasoned with a combination of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors, then seared to perfection for a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior. Whether served with rice, in tacos, or on a salad, these chicken tenderloins are versatile, delicious, and sure to satisfy your cravings for bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southwest Chicken Tenderloins are the perfect blend of heat and flavor, making them a go-to option for any meal. The seasoning is what truly makes this dish stand out—cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika combine to create a rich, smoky base with just the right amount of spice. The chicken is cooked to juicy perfection, and you can serve it in a variety of ways—on a bed of greens, in wraps, or with your favorite side dishes. Plus, this recipe is quick and simple, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken tenderloins.

2. Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenderloins in a single layer.

3. Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken tenderloins for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown on the outside. You may need to cook the chicken in batches depending on the size of your skillet.

4. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

5. Serve: Garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, if desired. Serve alongside your favorite sides, in tacos, or on a salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Southwest Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken tenderloins instead of searing them in a skillet.

• Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture with a little olive oil and lime juice for 30 minutes before cooking.

• Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or toss the chicken in your favorite hot sauce before serving for an extra kick.

• Southwest Chicken Salad: Slice the cooked chicken and serve it on top of a bed of greens with corn, black beans, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch or cilantro-lime dressing.

• Chicken Tacos: Shred the cooked chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, topped with salsa, cheese, and sour cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat it on the stove in a little olive oil over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken breasts may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the seasoning and coat the chicken in advance. Store the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

3. Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenderloins, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even seasoning and proper cooking time.

4. What can I serve with Southwest Chicken Tenderloins?

This chicken pairs well with sides like Mexican rice, roasted vegetables, black beans, or a fresh salad. It also works great in tacos or wraps.

5. Can I use a different type of seasoning?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other Southwest spices like chipotle powder, oregano, or taco seasoning for a slightly different flavor profile.

6. Can I cook the chicken in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or using a spicier chili powder. You can also top the chicken with hot sauce for extra heat.

8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

9. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken to ensure a quicker cooking time and tenderness. Bone-in chicken will take longer to cook and may require different cooking methods.

10. How can I make this dish even more flavorful?

You can marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the seasoning mixture, which will intensify the flavors. Adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving also enhances the flavor.

Conclusion

Southwest Chicken Tenderloins are a flavorful, quick, and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With bold spices and tender chicken, this dish can be served in a variety of ways, whether in tacos, on a salad, or with your favorite sides. The versatile seasoning and simple preparation make it a meal everyone will love, and it’s a great option to keep in your regular dinner rotation.