Embark on a culinary adventure with our Creamy Southwest Chicken Delight, where simplicity meets extraordinary flavors, all ready in a swift 30 minutes. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of weeknight cooking, proving that a dish doesn’t need to be complicated to be deeply satisfying. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce, infused with the vibrant tastes of the Southwest. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal to unwind after a long day or wanting to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish promises to deliver on all fronts. Let’s dive into the heart of Southwest cuisine with a recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making every bite a memorable experience.
Creamy Southwest Chicken Recipe
Dive into the rich and robust flavors of this Creamy Southwest Chicken, a perfect dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. This recipe combines the convenience of a quick weeknight meal with the indulgence of creamy, spicy flavors. Ideal for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts halved lengthwise
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 can 10 fluid ounces Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, with juices
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 8 ounces cream cheese e.g., Philly, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese by leaving it out of the fridge for at least an hour before starting, or microwave it for 30 seconds. Cut into cubes for easier melting.
- Season both sides of the chicken halves with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, combine oil and butter. Once hot, sear the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- Lower the heat to medium, add garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and add Ro-tel, chili powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir well.
- Gradually mix in the cream cheese until fully integrated. Return the chicken to the skillet to warm through, adding more broth if the sauce thickens too much.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately.
Notes
Notes:
- Original Rotel adds a bit of heat, balanced by the cream cheese. For a milder sauce, opt for mild Rotel or increase the spice with cayenne pepper or a hot chili powder for extra heat.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F, checking with an instant-read thermometer.
- Calories: 408 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 137mg
- Sodium: 427mg
- Potassium: 691mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 1699IU
- Vitamin C: 9mg
- Calcium: 99mg
- Iron: 2mg
