Get ready for some Southwestern heat with this fiery ancho chili chicken feast! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs get coated in a complex blend of smoky, sweet and spicy spices. Ancho chili powder lends its signature rich raisin-like flavor and mild, building heat.
We balance it out with savory cumin, paprika and garlic for incredible depth in every bite. After marinating to allow the chicken to soak up all that robust flavor, it bakes or grills up juicy, vibrant and utterly crave-worthy.
The combination of spicy chili kick and tangy lime juice keeps you coming back for more of this succulent chicken that’s a true crowd-pleasing fiesta!
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4 servings
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh per person
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 3g
This lean protein main delivers a big boost of nutrients in each serving while keeping calories moderate thanks to the absence of coating or frying. The mix of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory spices paired with the chicken provides quality protein to fuel your body balanced by the veggie sides.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless: 4 pieces [about 800 grams / 28 oz total]
- Ancho chili powder: 30 grams (1 oz / 2 tablespoons)
- Garlic powder: 5 grams (0.18 oz / 1 teaspoon)
- Onion powder: 5 grams (0.18 oz / 1 teaspoon)
- Ground cumin: 5 grams (0.18 oz / 1 teaspoon)
- Smoked paprika: 5 grams (0.18 oz / 1 teaspoon)
- Olive oil: 30 ml (1 fl oz / 2 tablespoons) [27 grams / 1 ounce]
- Lime juice: 30 ml (1 fl oz / 2 tablespoons) [28.5 grams / 1 ounce]
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method of Preparation
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix together ancho chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken pieces evenly and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Bake Chicken: Place marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Marinating Time: For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Cooking Alternatives: Grill or pan-sear the chicken for a different texture.
- Sauce Pairing: Serve with a creamy avocado sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime for added zest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use different cuts of chicken? Yes, this recipe works well with any cut. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- How spicy is this dish? Ancho chili provides a mild to medium heat. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, marinate the chicken ahead and cook when ready to serve.
- What sides go well with this dish? Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.