Description
This Easy Baked Salsa Chicken is a flavorful, Tex-Mex inspired dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that’s packed with protein and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, zesty salsa, and melted cheese makes this a family favorite that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup store-bought or homemade salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
- 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and grease a casserole dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of each chicken breast, pressing the spices into the meat.
- Arrange in Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared casserole dish. Pour the salsa over the chicken, ensuring each breast is covered evenly.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven, uncovered, for approximately 40 minutes. The high temperature will cook the chicken quickly and allow the salsa to reduce slightly, creating a flavorful sauce.
- Add the Cheese: About 2-3 minutes before the chicken is done, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chicken. Return the dish to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crisp cheese topping, switch to broil mode for the last 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your choice of side dishes like rice, vegetables, or tortillas, and garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, or lime wedges.
Notes
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Salsa Choice: The type of salsa you use will greatly influence the flavor and heat level of the dish. Feel free to experiment with different types, including fruit-based salsas like pineapple or mango for a unique twist.
- Cheese Alternatives: You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend, depending on your preference.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time by seasoning the chicken and storing it with salsa in the fridge. Simply add the cheese and bake when ready to serve.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier preparation, you can make this dish in a slow cooker by cooking on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, adding the cheese in the last 30 minutes.