Southwest Chicken (Print Version)

Southwest-spiced chicken strips baked fast. Smoky, a bit spicy, and ready in 20 minutes for a simple meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 tablespoon of olive oil
02 - ½ lime (optional)
03 - 1 to 1 ¼ pounds chicken tenderloins (or cut chicken breast into 3 long strips)

→ Seasonings

04 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
06 - ½ teaspoon chili powder (chipotle powder can be used for a spicier kick)
07 - ½ teaspoon cumin
08 - ½ teaspoon regular chili powder
09 - ½ teaspoon fine salt (cut to ¼ teaspoon if you'd rather it less salty)

# Steps:

01 - Turn your oven on and set it to 375°F to heat up.
02 - Combine the salt, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chipotle powder in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
03 - Lay chicken tenderloins on a baking sheet. Drizzle the seasoning mixture on top and evenly coat each piece by flipping them over a few times.
04 - Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and cook for 15-18 minutes. The chicken is done when it hits 165°F inside.
05 - Give the chicken an extra flavor boost by squeezing the lime juice on top before serving.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Cooking duration can change based on how thick the chicken pieces are.
02 - Perfect for lunchboxes, salads, or wraps.