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Homemade Baked Salsa Chicken photo

Baked Salsa Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts baked with salsa and melted cheese for an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • skillet (oven-safe) or 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Tongs
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Spatula or spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1.5 tablespoons taco seasoning store-bought or homemade (about 3/4 of a packet)
  • kosher salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 cups salsa store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup shredded cheese your favorite kind
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown; it does not need to be fully cooked through.
  • Transfer the skillet to the oven if it is oven-safe, or pour half of the salsa into a 9x13-inch baking dish and place the seared chicken on top.
  • Spoon the remaining salsa evenly over the chicken, then bake for 20–30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken (about 1/4 cup per breast), and return to the oven for 4–5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
  • Garnish with the chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Shred cheese from a block for the best melt.
  • Try different salsas like verde or chunky for varied flavor.
  • Use a hot salsa or add jalapeños to increase heat.
  • No extra liquid is needed because the salsa keeps the chicken moist.