Southwest Baked Chicken Tenderloins

Name: Southwest Baked Chicken Tenderloins
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon table salt (use 1/4 teaspoon if you’re sensitive to salt); 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (swap with chili powder for a milder taste); 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 to 1 1/4 pounds chicken tenderloins (you can also cut chicken breast cut into 3 long vertical strips*); 1/2 lime (optional)

20 Minute Southwest Chicken Tenderloins are so easy to make and have a satisfying spicy smokey flavor! They are perfect on their own or in a salad or warp.

southwest chicken tenderloins on a plate next to rice

I love the Southwest Spice Blend used in the recipe. Just a few spices transform boring chicken into one packed with bold flavor. It's a quick way to elevate your meal with minimal effort!

If you're looking for more quick and simple Southwest recipes, check out my Shredded Chicken Tacos with Pico de Gallo and Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Tenders - I love using chicken tenderloins (also called chicken tenders) in a recipe when I want to make something fast and with a ton of flavor. I've also substituted chicken tenderloins by cutting up a chicken breast in 3 long vertical strips,
Olive Oil - Olive oil helps the spices coat the chicken evenly and keeps it juicy while baking. You can substitute it with butter, vegetable oil, or avocado oil.
Table Salt - I use ½ teaspoon of table salt here, but if you're sensitive to salt, ¼ teaspoon works too. For kosher salt, use ½ to ¾ teaspoons.
Chipotle Powder - ½ teaspoon of chipotle powder will give your chicken a medium spice & smoky flavor. If you don't want your chicken to be spicy, swap out the chipotle chili powder for equal parts regular chili powder.
Smoked Paprika - Adds a vibrant color and smoky flavor to the chicken. You can use regular paprika, but I love the flavor smoked paprika gives to the chicken.
Garlic Powder - If you don't have garlic powder, use onion powder.
Lime - A squeeze of lime at the end gives a fresh citrus flavor that's that it totally optional. You can also use lemon juice to get the flavor.

Full ingredient list with quantities in the recipe card below

How to Make Southwest Chicken Tenders

Step 1 | Make Seasoning

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, chipotle powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.

southwest seasoning mixed with oil in a bowl

Step 2 | Coat Chicken

Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Pour the olive oil mixture over them, tossing until each piece is fully coated.

Step 3 | Bake

Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4 | Finish

Squeeze the lime juice over the top for an extra pop of flavor. Serve with rice and vegetables, or use in a wrap, salad, or pasta dish.

southwest chicken tenderloins on a plate next to salad

Tips & Notes

Don't Overbake: Chicken tenderloins cook quickly, so check them at 15 minutes to avoid drying them out.

Use a Meat Thermometer: I always use a meat thermometer when cooking chicken. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.

Ways to Eat Southwest Chicken

With Rice and Vegetables
With Pasta
In a Southwest Chicken Wrap
In a Sandwich
In a Rice Bowl
In a Southwest Chicken Salad

Common Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenderloins?

Yes! Slice your chicken breast into three long strips to cook evenly.

How can I store these for meal prep?

These chicken tenderloins are great for meal prepping. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Sides

Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice
Roasted Vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini)
Southwest Bean and Corn Salad
Guacamole and Chips

Tried this recipe? Let everyone know how it turned out! Your feedback and tips help others decide if they should make it.

Ingredients & Substitutions