Baked Salsa Chicken Recipe
Are you tired of the same old chicken breast dishes that leave your taste buds longing for excitement? Look no further than this Baked Salsa Chicken, a zesty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. With the vibrant kick of salsa and the creamy richness of cheese and sour cream, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and bakes beautifully in the oven, making it a great option for busy evenings.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Category | Chicken Breast |
| Keywords | Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Oven, < 4 Hours |
| Description | A zippy chicken dish with salsa, cheese, and a spicy kick. |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Content per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 171.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 1.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 68.8 mg |
| Sodium | 827.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 9.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g |
| Sugars | 4.4 g |
| Protein | 29.6 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 4 | boneless skinless chicken breasts |
| 1 | cup salsa |
| 1 | cup fat-free cheddar cheese |
| 1 – 2 | tablespoons nonfat sour cream |
| To taste | pepper |
| To taste | seasoning salt |
| To taste | cayenne pepper |
| 4 | green onions (for garnish) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take an 8×8-inch baking dish and arrange the boneless skinless chicken breasts in it. Season the chicken with pepper, seasoning salt, and cayenne pepper to your desired level of spice. The cayenne pepper adds a delightful heat, so be cautious with the amount if you prefer a milder flavor.
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Add the Salsa: Pour the salsa evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts. Make sure to save some salsa for topping the dish later. The salsa not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also keeps it moist during baking.
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Bake the Chicken: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45 to 60 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The timing may vary based on the size of your chicken breasts, so it’s always good to check for doneness.
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Top with Cheese: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the foil and sprinkle the fat-free cheddar cheese generously over the top. Return the dish to the oven and broil for the last 5 minutes of baking time. This step is crucial as it allows the cheese to melt and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, adding both flavor and texture to your dish.
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Garnish and Serve: After broiling, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken. When ready to serve, garnish the baked salsa chicken with dollops of nonfat sour cream, extra salsa, and freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve this Baked Salsa Chicken alongside a simple green salad or your favorite vegetable side for a complete meal. The combination of spicy salsa and creamy toppings makes each bite incredibly satisfying and delicious.
Final Tips
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as black beans or corn, to the salsa before pouring it over the chicken.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.
This Baked Salsa Chicken is not only a delicious way to shake up your chicken dinner routine but also a healthier alternative packed with protein. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
