Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner—I’m talking beautifully spiced baked Mexican chicken that’s so easy and flavorful, you’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
I love creating recipes that are both simple and delicious, and my Easy Baked Mexican Chicken is no exception. With boneless chicken breasts seasoned in a flavor-packed marinade of olive oil, lime juice, and spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and fresh cilantro, and complemented by a side of creamy avocado, it’s a delightful meal that perfectly balances taste and nutrition.
Easy Baked Mexican Chicken Recipe Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: High in protein, low in fat, keeps you full longer.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats, helps absorb nutrients, adds richness.
- Lime Juice: Adds tangy flavor, rich in vitamin C, enhances freshness.
- Garlic Powder: Aromatic and savory, may boost immunity, adds depth.
- Chili Powder: Provides heat, contains antioxidants, adds a spicy kick.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, sweet flavor, rich color boost.
- Cilantro: Fresh herb flavor, high in antioxidants, adds brightness.
- Avocado: Creamy texture, rich in healthy fats, high in fiber.
Easy Baked Mexican Chicken Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
How to Make this Easy Baked Mexican Chicken Recipe
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well-coated, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Transfer the marinated chicken breasts to a baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer.
5. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese evenly over the chicken breasts.
7. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
9. Before serving, garnish the chicken with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeño (if using), diced tomato, and sliced avocado.
10. Serve the baked Mexican chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Easy Baked Mexican Chicken Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Oven
2. Small bowl
3. Measuring spoons
4. Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
5. Baking dish
6. Meat thermometer
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
FAQ
- Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs may require a bit longer. - Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: To enhance the spiciness, add more jalapeños or include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the spice mix. - Q: Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavor, but it’s optional. - Q: What can I use if I don’t have smoked paprika?
A: You can substitute regular paprika or add a touch of chipotle powder for a smoky flavor. - Q: Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese?
A: Yes, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy. - Q: Can this be grilled instead of baked?
A: Yes, the chicken can be grilled. Cook on medium-high heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. - Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Easy Baked Mexican Chicken Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- Instead of olive oil, use canola oil or avocado oil.
- Substitute lime juice with lemon juice.
- If garlic powder is unavailable, use 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced.
- Replace chili powder with cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Use cheddar cheese instead of Monterey Jack cheese.
Pro Tips
1. Marination Time: For more flavorful chicken, marinate the chicken breasts for a longer period—ideally overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the spices and lime juice to penetrate deeper, enhancing the taste.
2. Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some portions from drying out while others are still undercooked.
3. Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. For instance, try pepper jack for an added kick or a sharp cheddar blend for a richer taste.
4. Spice Personalization: Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeño slices depending on your preferred spice level. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
5. Avocado Freshness: Slice the avocado just before serving to maintain its fresh color and creamy texture. You can squeeze some additional lime juice over the avocado slices to prevent browning and add a zesty touch.
Easy Baked Mexican Chicken Recipe
My favorite Easy Baked Mexican Chicken Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Oven
2. Small bowl
3. Measuring spoons
4. Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
5. Baking dish
6. Meat thermometer
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well-coated, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Transfer the marinated chicken breasts to a baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer.
5. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese evenly over the chicken breasts.
7. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
9. Before serving, garnish the chicken with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeño (if using), diced tomato, and sliced avocado.
10. Serve the baked Mexican chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!