Some weeknight dinners need a long list of ingredients and a free afternoon. This salsa chicken needs neither. Chicken breasts get a coat of taco seasoning, a generous layer of salsa and a blanket of melted cheddar, and the oven does the rest. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare and roughly half an hour to bake.
The salsa is what keeps the chicken moist and full of flavor. Use mild salsa for a family-friendly dinner, or go with medium or hot if you like some heat.
Recipe at a Glance
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 teaspoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium or hot)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season the chicken. Arrange the chicken breasts in the dish in a single layer and sprinkle the taco seasoning over both sides.
- Add the salsa. Spoon the salsa evenly over the chicken.
- Bake. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear (165°F/74°C on an instant-read thermometer).
- Add the cheese. Scatter the cheddar over the chicken and return the dish to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve. Top each piece with a spoonful of sour cream, if using, and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Salsa Chicken
- Even out the thickness. If your chicken breasts are very thick, pound them to an even thickness so they cook at the same rate and stay juicy.
- Pick a chunky salsa. A thick, chunky salsa stays on top of the chicken better than a thin, runny one.
- Change the cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper Jack or a Mexican cheese blend all work in place of cheddar.
- Finish with fresh toppings. Chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced avocado or a squeeze of lime add freshness.
What to Serve with Salsa Chicken
Serve it with Spanish rice, Mexican-style corn, black beans or a crisp green salad. Leftovers make an easy filling for tacos, burritos or quesadillas.
Storing and Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate)
About 287 calories, 36 g protein, 12 g fat and 7 g carbohydrates.