Chicken coated in a spicy dried chile rub and pan-seared to perfection. This healthy, high protein dish brings bold flavor with minimal added fat, fitting well into clean eats and weight loss plans.
Split open the dried ancho and guajillo chiles. Remove seeds and stems, then toast the chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes per side). Cool slightly.
Blend toasted chiles, garlic cloves, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper together in a food processor until a coarse spice mix forms.
Pat chicken breasts dry and coat them evenly on all sides with the chile spice rub. Allow to rest for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors.
Preheat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then add the coated chicken breasts without crowding the pan.
Sear chicken 5-6 minutes per side until a deep char develops and chicken is just cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.