Easy Salsa Chicken

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that combines simplicity with flavor, and that’s exactly what Easy Salsa Chicken brings to the table. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a busy weeknight, and my family was starving. I wanted something quick, but I also craved that satisfying taste that only a home-cooked meal can offer. The aroma filled the kitchen as the chicken baked, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. This recipe quickly became a go-to in our household, not just because it’s easy to prepare, but because it’s a crowd-pleaser. Every bite bursts with flavor, and it’s a dish that always leaves everyone asking for more.

Main Ingredients for Easy Salsa Chicken

The ingredients for Easy Salsa Chicken are simple yet effective. They work together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also wholesome. The key players here are the chicken breasts, which serve as the protein base, and the salsa, which adds a delightful kick. The cheese melts into gooey perfection, making every bite indulgent. Together, these ingredients create a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source for this dish, these chicken breasts cook up tender and juicy, providing a hearty base.
• ¼ cup all purpose flour or Wondra flour: Used for coating, this optional ingredient helps create a crispy exterior when sautéing the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon seasoning salt: This optional seasoning adds flavor depth to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing, this oil adds richness and helps achieve a nice golden color on the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: A flavorful blend that infuses the chicken with a zesty, spicy kick.
• 1 cup salsa: The star of the dish, salsa not only adds flavor but also moisture to the chicken as it bakes.
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey topping that complements the salsas.

Easy Salsa Chicken Instructions

Cooking Easy Salsa Chicken is as delightful as it is straightforward. You’ll find that the process is simple enough for even the busiest weeknights. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to a flavorful and satisfying meal.

1. Begin by greasing a casserole dish that can comfortably fit your chicken breasts. A 9 x 9-inch dish or something comparable works well. This ensures your chicken doesn’t stick while baking.
2. Next, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
3. If you choose to sauté your chicken first for a golden exterior, mix the flour and seasoning salt in a large Ziploc bag. It’s an easy and mess-free way to coat the chicken. Seal the bag and shake it to coat the chicken thoroughly.
4. Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. You’ll know it’s hot enough when you can feel a gentle sizzle when you add the chicken.
5. Add the chicken breasts to the pan, cooking them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want them to be lightly browned, which adds flavor and texture.
6. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and place it in your prepared casserole dish. It’s okay if they’re not fully cooked yet; they will finish baking in the oven.
7. Now, sprinkle one side of the chicken with taco seasoning. Flip the breasts over and repeat the process on the other side. This seasoning is key for imparting that taco flavor.
8. Pour the salsa over the top of the chicken, making sure each piece is well-covered. The salsa will add moisture and flavor as it bakes.
9. Transfer the casserole dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
10. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.

Helpful Hints

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, having a few tips can make all the difference in your cooking adventures. Here are some helpful hints to ensure your Easy Salsa Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Storage: To store leftovers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about three to four days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Consider serving Easy Salsa Chicken with a side of Spanish rice or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Leftover Ideas: Use any leftovers in tacos or as a topping for nachos for a delicious twist.
• Cooking Method: For a faster method, use an Instant Pot or slow cooker, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

What to Serve With Easy Salsa Chicken

When it comes to serving Easy Salsa Chicken, the options are endless. This dish shines brightly on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are some ideas:

• Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice complements the dish beautifully, soaking up the salsa flavors.
• Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add a protein-rich side that’s both hearty and nutritious.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with lime dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a rich texture and complements the flavors perfectly.
• Warm Tortillas: Serve with warm tortillas for a fun, DIY taco night!
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family gatherings or game night. Everyone can help themselves.

FAQ

Conclusion

Easy Salsa Chicken is a delightful dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor, making it a staple in any kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next family dinner or busy weeknight meal. It’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table!

Easy Salsa Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Salsa Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with zesty salsa and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this flavorful dish will leave your family craving more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ¼ cup all purpose flour or Wondra flour optional
• ½ teaspoon seasoning salt optional
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 1 cup salsa I used a jar of Trader Joe's salsa that was a bit more than 1 cup
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Frying pan
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Grease a casserole dish that will fit 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, a 9 x 9-inch or comparable size.
2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
3. If you'd like to saute your chicken first, mix the flour and salt in a large Ziploc bag, then seal Add the chicken and shake until coated.
4. Heat the olive oil in a saute pan. When hot, add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until lightly browned.
5. Remove and place in prepared dish. Sprinkle one side of the chicken with taco seasoning, flip, and repeat on the other side. Top with salsa.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with cheese and return to the oven for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Notes

• Tip 1: To store leftovers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about three to four days.
• Tip 2: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip 3: Consider serving Easy Salsa Chicken with a side of Spanish rice or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Tip 4: Use any leftovers in tacos or as a topping for nachos for a delicious twist.
• Tip 5: For a faster method, use an Instant Pot or slow cooker, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

Previous PostHealthy Chicken Parmesan

Next Post Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.