Southwestern Chicken Or Turkey

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

A vibrant Southwestern chicken or turkey stir-fry bursting with smoky chili, cumin, fresh vegetables, corn, and salsa, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal for any spice lover.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. chicken or turkey, cut into 2-inch strips
  • 1 1/4 tsp. chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. vegetable oil
  • 1 1/4 cups green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup red onion, sliced and separated into rings
  • 1 cup frozen whole corn
  • 3/4 cup thick and chunky salsa

Instructions

  1. Fry meat in oil on high heat for 3 minutes, or until brown. Stir in chili powder and cumin.
  2. Remove chicken or turkey from skillet.
  3. Add bell pepper and onion; stir-fry about 3 minutes.
  4. Return meat to skillet; stir in corn and salsa.
  5. Stir-fry until thoroughly heated.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken or turkey in the chili powder and cumin for 30 minutes before cooking. You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving can brighten the dish. If you prefer a spicier version, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. This dish also works well with a variety of Mexican recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with rice or warm tortillas, making it perfect for a hearty meal. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside a refreshing salad or some chips with salsa or guacamole. You might also enjoy it with My Best Friend'S Easy Enchiladas for a delightful combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Ensure it's heated to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Southwestern Chicken Or Turkey contains roughly 750 calories, with 24g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 732mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

750 kcal 38% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 23.8g 48% DV
Total Fat 57.6g 74% DV
Carbs 58.2g 21% DV
Fiber 14.6g 52% DV
Sugar 5.3g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 732.3mg 32% DV
Potassium 2198.4mg 47% DV
Cholesterol 40.1mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 582.9mcg 65% DV
Vitamin C 13.4mg 15% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 1079.6mg 83% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh corn, you can cut it off the cob and add it to the skillet after cooking the bell peppers and onions. Fresh corn will add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the dish. Just be sure to cook it for a few extra minutes to ensure it's tender.

What can I do if I don't have chili powder?

If you don't have chili powder, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Alternatively, you can use taco seasoning, which often contains similar spices. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this Southwestern Chicken or Turkey is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just follow the storage tips to maintain freshness and enjoy a quick, flavorful meal on busy days.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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