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Cumin and Ancho Chicken

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This aromatic cumin and ancho chicken is a vibrant addition to any healthy meal plan. Combining the deep, smoky heat of ancho chilli powder with the earthy warmth of ground cumin, this diabetes-friendly dish prioritises bold seasoning over sugar or heavy fats. By using boneless chicken thighs, the meat remains succulent and tender throughout the high-heat searing process, resulting in a protein-rich main that feels truly indulgent.

Perfect for batch cooking or a quick weeknight dinner, this versatile chicken can be served in a variety of ways. Enjoy it alongside a crisp green salad, folded into wholemeal wraps, or served with a portion of brown rice for a balanced, low-glycaemic meal. It is also an excellent make-ahead option, as the spices continue to develop in flavour if prepared a day in advance.

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Ingredients for Cumin and Ancho Chicken

  • 900g skinless, boneless chicken thighs

  • 3 tablespoons ancho chilli powder

  • 3 tablespoons ground cumin

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt plus more

  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

  • Ingredient info: Ancho chilli powder is available at Latin markets and some supermarkets.

How to make Cumin and Ancho Chicken

Toss chicken with ancho chilli powder, cumin, and 2 teaspoons salt in a large bowl to coat. Cover and chill for 2 hours. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with a thin layer of oil. Working in batches, place thighs in skillet in a single layer (do not crowd). Cover and cook until a crust forms, about 5 minutes. Turn; cook, uncovered, until thighs are just cooked through, 3-4 minutes longer. Transfer to a platter; let rest for 5 minutes.

Cut chicken into 1/2" cubes. Transfer with any accumulated juices to a medium bowl. Season with salt. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Let cool slightly. Cover; chill. Rewarm before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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