Description
This Oven Baked Salsa Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with zesty taco seasoning, rich salsa, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it is served with classic toppings like guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced jalapenos, and crushed tortilla chips for a delicious Tex-Mex experience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lbs Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless thin cutlets)
- 2 tbsp Taco seasoning (or 1 store bought packet)
Toppings
- 1½ cups Salsa (thick preferred)
- ¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Guacamole (for serving)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Diced jalapeno (for garnish)
- Crushed tortilla chips (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a large baking dish, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken breasts, coating each piece well to maximize flavor infusion.
- Add Salsa and Cheese: Pour the thick salsa evenly over the seasoned chicken, then top everything with shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a melty finish.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 25-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, serve the chicken topped with guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced jalapenos, and crushed tortilla chips to add texture and freshness.
Notes
- Use thin-cut chicken breasts for faster and more even cooking.
- If salsa is too watery, strain it slightly or use a thick salsa to avoid excess liquid while baking.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking.
- Customize toppings according to preference; avocado slices or lime wedges work well too.
- For a spicier dish, add extra jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning.
