Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake
Looking for a quick and tasty dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy?
This Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a game-changer!
With just 20 minutes of prep time and 31 grams of protein per serving, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle.
Fresh, zesty salsa and melted cheese on juicy chicken make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!
For the Chicken
- Chicken – 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces. This lean protein forms the base of the dish.
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to coat the chicken and add flavor.
- Taco Seasoning – 1 teaspoon of low-sodium taco seasoning for a hint of spice and flavor.
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon for an aromatic, savory kick.
- Salt – 3/4 teaspoon to enhance the flavors of the chicken.
- Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper for added seasoning.
For the Salsa Fresca
- Tomatoes – 3 tomatoes, coarsely chopped, for a juicy, fresh base to your salsa.
- Jalapeños – 1 cup (about 4), seeded and chopped, to add a little heat.
- Onion – 1 cup of coarsely chopped red or white onion for a sharp, sweet bite.
- Cilantro – A small bunch of finely chopped cilantro for freshness and color (leave some for topping).
- Garlic Cloves – 4 minced garlic cloves for an extra punch of flavor.
- Lime – The juice of 1 lime to brighten up the salsa and balance the flavors.
For the Casserole
- Cheese – 2 cups of shredded mozzarella or white cheddar cheese for melty, cheesy goodness.
- Cooking Spray – Use a spray like Misto to lightly coat the baking dish for easy clean-up.
Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake
This simple and flavorful Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is packed with 31 grams of protein per serving! With just 20 minutes of prep time, it's a high-protein meal the entire family will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp low-sodium taco seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
For the Salsa Fresca:
- 3 tomatoes, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup (about 4) jalapeños, seeded and chopped
- 1 cup red or white onion, coarsely chopped
- 1 small bunch cilantro, finely chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or white cheddar cheese
- Cooking spray (Misto works well)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil, taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated, then spread it out in a single layer. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, cilantro, garlic, and lime juice. Spoon this salsa mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Top the salsa with shredded cheese, then bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Once done, remove from the oven, sprinkle with extra cilantro for garnish, and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Freeze for up to 1 month in an airtight container.
- Can I use store-bought salsa instead of making fresh salsa?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought salsa! Just make sure to choose a mild or medium salsa, depending on how much heat you prefer. Drain any excess liquid before topping the chicken to keep the dish from becoming too watery. - Can I swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs?
Totally! Chicken thighs are a great option if you want more flavor and juiciness. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same instructions for baking. - How can I make this recipe faster?
If you’re short on time, cutting the chicken into smaller 1-inch pieces will help it cook faster. You could also prepare the salsa ahead of time so you can just assemble and bake when you’re ready. - Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as usual. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge. - What can I serve with Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, a fresh green salad, or even some warm tortillas to scoop up all the cheesy goodness! You could also serve it with roasted veggies or quinoa for a complete meal.
