Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Southwest Cream & Crunch Chicken Bake


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A hearty and comforting Southwest-inspired chicken bake with tender seasoned chicken, a creamy cheesy sauce, and a crunchy tortilla chip topping.


Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or corn chips
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Season the chicken on both sides with salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
  3. Arrange the seasoned chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  4. In a bowl, mix the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheese until smooth.
  5. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken.
  6. In another bowl, combine the crushed tortilla chips with melted butter.
  7. Sprinkle the chip mixture evenly over the top of the dish.
  8. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden and crunchy.
  9. Let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with green onions or cilantro if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Add the crunchy topping just before baking if assembling ahead.
  • Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and work very well.
  • Reduce spices for a milder version.
  • Best served fresh while the topping is crisp.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southwest

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 560
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg