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Southwest Chicken

By Chef Melanie November 11, 2025
  • chicken
  • southwest
  • crispy
  • baked
  • tortilla chips
Difficulty Beginner
Servings 4
Estimated Cost $18.00
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Southwest Chicken

Crispy baked chicken breast coated in seasoned tortilla chip crumbs with a hint of paprika and lemon pepper. A fun twist on traditional breaded chicken that brings Southwest flavors to your dinner table.

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F.

  2. 2

    Crush tortilla chips into crumbs using a food processor, rolling pin, or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin.

  3. 3

    Add paprika and lemon pepper to the chip crumbs and mix well.

  4. 4

    Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring both sides are coated.

  5. 5

    Roll the buttered chicken in the seasoned crumb mixture to coat completely.

  6. 6

    Place the coated chicken into a greased 2-quart baking dish.

  7. 7

    Sprinkle any remaining crumbs over the chicken.

  8. 8

    Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  9. 9

    Serve with white rice and salsa for an authentic Southwest experience.