Freezer-to-Grill: Southwest Grilled Chicken
This Southwest Grilled Chicken marinade is a bold, smoky blend that brings the heat and flavor of the desert straight to your grill. It’s one of my go-to recipes for summer meal prep… easy to assemble, freezer friendly, and bursting with flavor.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick Prep: Assemble in under 10 minutes
- Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for make-ahead meals
- Versatile: Great for grilling, baking, or air fryer
- Flavor-Packed: A harmonious blend of spices
Freezer-to-Grill: Southwest Chicken
Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken, bone in or boneless
- 1/4 cup avocado oil
- 2 packets taco seasoning *see note below
Instructions
Freezer Assembly
- In a 1-gallon freezer bag, add the chicken, avocado oil, and taco seasoning.
- Seal the bag and give it a good squish to blend everything together.
- On the outside of the bag, write the name of the recipe and the date. Place in the freezer
Cooking Instructions
- Remove the chicken from the freezer and place in refrigerator to defrost.
- Grill until chicken is cooked through.
Skip the store-bought packets — this pantry-friendly spice mix has everything you need for bold, Southwest flavor and makes the perfect amount for this recipe:
DIY Taco Seasoning:
2 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp ground cumin, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp cayenne, and salt to taste.
Practical magic tip: Mix a small jar ahead of time so it’s always on hand for marinades, taco meat, or roasted veggies.
Icon by Freepik
From Grill to Table: Easy Ways to Enjoy Southwest Chicken
Pair this dish with a fresh corn salad, cilantro lime rice, or a big bowl of guacamole for the ultimate backyard dinner. It’s especially good for meal prepping — just grill extra and enjoy it throughout the week in tacos, bowls, or sandwiches. You can use bone-in drumsticks like we did here, or swap for boneless thighs or breasts depending on your preference.
If you love the bold, earthy flavors of cumin, garlic, and paprika, this one’s a must-try. Bonus: it freezes beautifully, so consider doubling the batch and stashing some for later. One quick thaw, a hot grill, and dinner practically makes itself.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a crowd, this Southwest Grilled Chicken brings bold flavor with minimal effort. It pairs beautifully with cilantro-lime rice, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob for a fast summer supper. Need it freezer-ready? Just mix the marinade, add chicken, and freeze flat. When you thaw it later, the spices deepen overnight for even more flavor. Serve it as tacos, slice it over salad, or add it to grain bowls for quick lunches. Southwest Grilled Chicken is your weeknight hero.
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