Name: Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup salsa fresca (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. The juicy chicken breast is baked with a fresh, tangy salsa that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. The cheese melts beautifully over the top, creating a gooey and irresistible finish. It’s a great way to enjoy the traditional flavors of a salsa and chicken combo without the need for complicated ingredients or long cooking times. Plus, it’s versatile and can be served with various sides, like rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup salsa fresca (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until they are lightly browned.
Remove the skillet from the heat and pour salsa fresca over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly covered.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the salsa-covered chicken.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the dish before baking for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the salsa fresca.
Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar cheese for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Grilled Chicken: If you prefer grilled chicken, you can grill the chicken breasts before adding the salsa and cheese for a smoky twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a microwave or oven. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They may take a little longer to cook, so be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I use store-bought salsa?

Absolutely! Store-bought salsa is a great time-saver. Just make sure to use a fresh-style salsa, like a salsa fresca, for the best flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and salsa in advance, then bake it just before serving. You can also bake the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for later reheating.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is naturally gluten-free as long as you make sure your salsa and cheese don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.

5. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before preparing the dish.

6. Can I add more cheese?

Of course! Feel free to add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy. You can also use a combination of cheeses for added flavor.

7. What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, a fresh salad, or even some roasted vegetables.

8. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, add the salsa, and cook on low for 4-6 hours, then top with cheese for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

9. Can I make it dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free version.

10. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, for a spicier dish, add jalapeños to the salsa or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken before baking.

Conclusion

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a quick and flavorful meal that combines the fresh zest of salsa with the savory richness of baked chicken. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With plenty of room for customization and easy-to-follow directions, this recipe is perfect for a hassle-free dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. Whether you make it as written or adapt it to suit your preferences, this dish is guaranteed to impress!

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake

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Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with fresh salsa, melted cheese, and a touch of spice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The vibrant salsa fresca brings a burst of freshness, while the cheese adds a creamy layer of indulgence. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 40min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Remove the skillet from heat and pour salsa fresca over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-covered.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the salsa-covered chicken.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optionally, serve with sour cream and fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Notes

Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to boost the nutrition of this dish.
For extra heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños or hot sauce into the salsa.
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
If you prefer grilled chicken, grill the chicken before adding the salsa and cheese for a smoky flavor.