Zesty Mexicali Chicken Skillet
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Southwest with this Zesty Mexicali Chicken Skillet. This one-pan dish features succulent, seasoned chicken thighs simmered in a rich salsa that bursts with fresh ingredients. Quick and easy to prepare, it's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Pair it with oven-roasted potatoes and asparagus for a complete meal that the whole family will love. Topped with fresh green onions and a squeeze of lime, this dish is both nourishing and delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (ground)
dried oregano
1 teaspoon (dried)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
chicken thighs, skinless, bone-in
1 1/2 lbs (about 8 thighs)
salsa
1 1/2 cups (use your favorite variety)
green onions
2 (thinly sliced)
lime wedge
to taste (optional for serving)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper to create a flavorful spice rub.
2
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then rub the spice mixture evenly over the meaty sides of the chicken.
3
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it's hot. Lightly coat the skillet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, seasoned side down, and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to brown.
5
Pour the salsa over the chicken, ensuring even coverage, then carefully turn the chicken over so the uncooked side is facing down.
6
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7
Once done, carefully transfer the chicken to serving plates, spooning some of the salsa sauce over the top.
8
Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and serve with lime wedges on the side to add a zesty twist if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Mexicali Chicken Skillet?
It is a vibrant, one-pan Southwest-inspired dish featuring seasoned chicken thighs simmered in salsa.
What cut of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of skinless, bone-in chicken thighs, which is approximately 8 thighs.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but you may need to reduce the simmering time to ensure the breast meat does not become dry.
What spices are in the dry rub?
The rub consists of ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild heat from the cayenne pepper, but the overall spiciness depends on the variety of salsa you choose.
How do I prepare the chicken before cooking?
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and rub the spice mixture evenly over the meaty sides.
Do I need a specific type of skillet?
A large nonstick skillet is recommended to prevent the chicken from sticking.
How long should I sear the chicken?
Cook the seasoned side down for about 5 minutes until it begins to brown.
When do I add the salsa?
Pour the salsa over the chicken after the initial 5-minute sear, then flip the chicken.
How long does the chicken need to simmer?
Cover the skillet and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes on medium-low heat.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What side dishes go well with Mexicali Chicken?
It pairs perfectly with oven-roasted potatoes and asparagus for a complete meal.
What are the recommended garnishes?
Thinly sliced green onions and fresh lime wedges provide a zesty finishing touch.
Is this recipe considered a one-pan meal?
Yes, the chicken and sauce are all prepared in a single skillet, making cleanup easy.
How many ingredients are needed?
The recipe requires 8 total ingredients, including spices and garnishes.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The core ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the label of your salsa to be sure.
Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
Yes, though you should use about three times the amount of fresh oregano to match the potency of dried.
What if I don't have cooking spray?
You can use a small amount of neutral vegetable oil to coat the pan instead.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and the flavors often deepen after sitting in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add vegetables directly to the skillet?
Yes, adding bell peppers or onions during the searing process can add more texture and nutrition.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for many keto or low-carb diets.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well but will likely cook faster than the bone-in variety.
What kind of salsa is recommended?
You can use any variety you like, such as chunky tomato salsa, salsa verde, or a fruit-based salsa.
Do I need to leave the lid on while simmering?
Yes, covering the skillet helps trap steam to cook the chicken evenly and keep it moist.
Can I use chili powder instead of cayenne?
Yes, chili powder can be substituted for a milder, earthier flavor profile.
How do I know when the salsa sauce is ready?
The sauce is ready when it has simmered with the chicken juices and the chicken is fully cooked.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, if you use a mild salsa, the savory chicken is usually a hit with children.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as you have a large enough skillet to prevent overcrowding the chicken.
Why should I pat the chicken dry?
Drying the chicken allows the spices to adhere better and helps achieve a better sear in the pan.