Mexican Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings.

• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, cumin, salsa, and cheese creates a rich and savory taste.

• Versatile: You can serve Mexican Chicken over rice, in tortillas, or with your favorite sides.

• Family-Friendly: It’s mild enough for kids but can be spiced up for adults who enjoy a little extra heat.

Ingredients

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

• Cooking spray

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt, to taste

• Ground black pepper, to taste

• Ground cumin, to taste

• 1 cup salsa

• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease a skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.

3. Rub the chicken breasts with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and cumin.

4. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook until browned on both sides and no longer pink in the center, about 10 to 15 minutes.

5. Transfer the browned chicken to a 9×13-inch baking dish.

6. Top each piece of chicken with salsa, then sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.

7. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and starts to brown, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Version: Use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

• Cheese Options: Swap Cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.

• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers or onions to boost flavor.

• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or with a side salad for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in 1-minute intervals.

FAQs

What type of salsa works best for this recipe?

A medium-thick salsa with a balance of acidity and spice complements the chicken perfectly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute, but adjust the cooking times as needed.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add spicy salsa, chopped jalapeños, or chili flakes to increase the heat level.

What sides pair well with Mexican Chicken?

Serve with rice, tortillas, beans, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely if preferred.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Just skip the initial cooking step and reheat it in the skillet before adding salsa and cheese.

Conclusion

Mexican Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The bold spices and melted cheese make it a crowd-pleaser, and its versatility allows for various variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding the family or preparing a meal for guests, this dish is sure to satisfy!

Mexican Chicken

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This Mexican Chicken recipe is a quick and easy dinner option with bold flavors and melted cheese. Perfect for busy nights, it combines chicken, salsa, and cheese, creating a dish that’s both savory and satisfying. Enjoy it with rice, tortillas, or your favorite sides, and customize the heat level to suit your taste. Whether for family meals or meal prep, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and family-friendly.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 25min
• Total Time: 40min
• Yield: 4servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking, Pan-frying
• Cuisine: mexican
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Cooking spray

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt, to taste

Ground black pepper, to taste

Ground cumin, to taste

1 cup salsa

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease a skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.

3. Rub the chicken breasts with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and cumin.

4. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook until browned on both sides and no longer pink in the center (about 10–15 minutes).

5. Transfer the browned chicken to a 9×13-inch baking dish.

6. Top each piece of chicken with salsa and sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.

7. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, about 15–20 minutes.

Notes

• Spicy Version: Use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños.

• Cheese Variations: Swap Cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Sautéed bell peppers or onions are a great addition.

• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or with a side salad.