Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With fresh tomatoes, spicy jalapeño, and melted mozzarella, it’s a delicious way to enjoy tender baked chicken with a fresh twist.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (diced)
• 1 medium white onion (chopped)
• 1 large jalapeño (chopped)
• A bunch of cilantro (chopped)
• 1/2 lime (juiced)
• 1/2 tsp salt (divided)
• 2 lbs chicken breast (boneless and skinless, diced)
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it lightly with oil.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix well and set aside.
3. Step 3: Place the diced chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle cumin, paprika, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, black pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt over the chicken. Toss or stir lightly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
4. Step 4: Spread the tomato mixture over the seasoned chicken, covering it evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
6. Step 6: Garnish with extra chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before chopping.
• Try substituting mozzarella with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Add black beans or corn to the tomato mix for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on the jalapeño and chili flakes. You can reduce or omit them to make the dish milder.

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 76 reviews

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a vibrant and flavorful baked chicken dish combining juicy seasoned chicken breast with a fresh salsa fresca topping made from cherry tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro, finished with melted mozzarella cheese for a delightful, colorful meal perfect for a busy weeknight.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Salsa Fresca Topping

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1 medium white onion, chopped
• 1 large jalapeño, chopped
• A bunch of cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1/4 tsp salt (divided)

Chicken and Seasoning

• 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless and skinless, diced
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt (for seasoning chicken)

Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make salsa fresca: In a medium bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped white onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
3. Season the chicken: Place the diced chicken breast onto the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle evenly with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, black pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Toss or turn to coat the chicken thoroughly with the spices.
4. Add salsa fresca and cheese: Spread the prepared salsa fresca mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken. Then, top the entire dish with shredded mozzarella cheese, distributing it evenly for a good melt and coverage.
5. Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with extra chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking it with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
• The jalapeño can be adjusted in quantity or omitted for less spice.
• Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor in the salsa fresca.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
• This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Salsa Fresca Chicken, Baked Chicken, Mexican Chicken Bake, Healthy Chicken Dinner, Mozzarella Chicken Bake