Southwestern Chicken

Southwestern Chicken Recipe - Bold Flavors from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Southwestern Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken strips with a mix of vegetables and spices. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and a lot of flavor in their meals.

History

The origins of Southwestern Chicken can be traced back to the Southwestern region of the United States, where the cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. This dish is a modern twist on traditional Southwestern flavors, combining classic ingredients like chili powder and cumin with chicken and vegetables.

Ingredients

vegetable cooking spray
1 lb (454 g) boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 2.5 x 0.5 inch strips
1.25 tsp chili powder
0.25 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp vegetable oil
1.25 cup green pepper strips
1 cup thinly sliced onions, separated into rings
1 cup frozen whole kernel corn
0.75 cup commercial thick & chunky salsa (mild or hot, your choice)

How to prepare

1. Coat a large nonstick frying pan with cooking spray and place over high heat until hot.
2. Add chicken and stir-fry for 3 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin.
4. Remove chicken from the frying pan and set aside.
5. Add oil to the frying pan and heat over medium-high heat.
6. Add green pepper strips and onion and stir-fry for 3 minutes.
7. Return chicken to the frying pan and stir in corn and salsa.
8. Stir-fry for 2 minutes more or until thoroughly heated. (Alternatively, thinly sliced strips of turkey, beef, or pork may be used.)

Variations

Add black beans or diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Use different types of salsa to change up the flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform strips to ensure even cooking.

- Stir-fry the chicken over high heat to get a nice sear on the outside.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and salsa to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Southwestern Chicken over rice or with warm tortillas.

- Top with avocado slices, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the key technique for this recipe, as it allows the chicken and vegetables to cook quickly and retain their crispness.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless skinless turkey, beef, or pork instead of chicken.

- Feel free to swap out the green peppers for red or yellow peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the chili powder and cumin mixture ahead of time for extra flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Southwestern Chicken in a colorful bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

230

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 23g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 27g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 70%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and fiber, and is relatively low in calories and fat.

Summary

Southwestern Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young woman with a passion for cooking and a thirst for new flavors. I had always loved experimenting in the kitchen, trying out different recipes and techniques to create delicious dishes for my family and friends.

One day, I was browsing through a cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, one recipe caught my eye - Southwestern Chicken. The combination of flavors and spices intrigued me, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. The recipe called for chicken breasts, black beans, corn, bell peppers, onions, and a blend of spices including cumin, chili powder, and garlic. As the chicken sizzled in the pan, the aroma of the spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the dish was done cooking, I plated it up and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the smoky cumin, the spicy chili powder, the sweet corn and bell peppers. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had stumbled upon a new favorite recipe.

I couldn't wait to share my discovery with my family. As they sat down to eat, their eyes lit up with delight as they tasted the Southwestern Chicken. They couldn't believe how delicious it was, and they begged me for the recipe so they could make it themselves.

From that day on, Southwestern Chicken became a staple in our household. It was a dish that brought us together, a dish that we all loved and enjoyed. As the years went by, I continued to make it for special occasions and gatherings, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tried it.

But the story of how I learned to make Southwestern Chicken didn't end there. Over the years, I picked up tips and tricks from friends and neighbors, each one adding their own unique twist to the recipe. One friend suggested adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of citrus flavor, while another recommended garnishing with fresh cilantro for a pop of color.

I incorporated these suggestions into my own version of the recipe, making it my own and perfecting it with each new addition. And as I continued to share my Southwestern Chicken with others, it became a dish that was loved not just by my family, but by everyone who had the pleasure of trying it.

Now, as I look back on that fateful day when I discovered the recipe for Southwestern Chicken, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey it has taken me on. It has brought me joy, laughter, and countless memories shared around the dinner table.

And as I pass on this recipe to future generations, I know that it will continue to bring people together, just as it has done for me. The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of good food and the joy of sharing it with the ones we love.