Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake – Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner? This Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake is a delicious. And easy recipe. That’s packed with vibrant ingredients. Like juicy tomatoes, zesty lime, and spicy jalapeños. It’s the perfect weeknight meal. That you can whip up. In just over 30 minutes. With tender chicken and melty mozzarella. It’s sure to become. A family favorite.
The first time I made this Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake. I was in a rush. Trying to get dinner on the table. Before my family started their usual “what’s for dinner?” chorus. I wanted something quick, healthy, and flavorful. My husband and child took one bite. And were instantly hooked. The combination of fresh salsa. With the seasoned chicken. Was an absolute winner. Now, this dish is on regular rotation in our household. And every time I make it. It brings back memories of that first, hectic. But rewarding dinner.
What makes this Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake truly special?
This recipe is not only quick and easy. But it’s also versatile. And healthy. The fresh salsa is made from tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Adds a burst of flavor. Without the need for heavy sauces. Or marinades. The chicken stays juicy and tender. Thanks to the combination of seasonings. And the moisture from the salsa. Plus, it’s customizable. You can adjust the heat level. By adding more or less jalapeño. And it pairs well with a variety of sides. From rice to tortillas.
What You Need To Make This Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake Recipe?
Chicken Breast: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Because they cook quickly. And absorb the flavors beautifully. Feel free to use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor. That complements the fresh salsa perfectly.
Salt & Pepper: Dividing the salt. Helps to season both the chicken and the salsa evenly.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that extra layer of flavor.
Red Chili Pepper Flakes: These give a nice kick to the dish. But you can adjust the amount. Based on your heat preference.
Tomatoes: Grape or Roma tomatoes work best here. Because they’re firm. And don’t release too much liquid. Keeping the salsa fresh and vibrant.
Onion: Adds crunch. And a bit of sweetness to the salsa.
Jalapeño: For that spicy zing! Remove the seeds if you want it milder.
Cilantro: A fresh herb. That brightens the dish—if you’re not a fan, you can swap it with parsley.
Lime Juice: Adds acidity that balances the richness of the cheese. And chicken.
Mozzarella: Melty, gooey goodness. That brings everything together. You can substitute it with cheddar or a Mexican blend. For a different flavor profile.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Steps To Make Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200ºC). While the oven is heating up, chop the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: In a salad bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Season this fresh salsa mixture with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and set aside.
Step 3: In a large baking dish, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season them evenly with cumin, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, and the remaining salt and pepper. Toss the chicken to ensure it’s well-coated with the spices.
Step 4: Spread the fresh salsa over the chicken pieces, making sure to cover them completely. Top with shredded mozzarella.
Step 5: Bake the dish on the middle rack for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165˚F (74ºC).
Step 6: Once out of the oven, garnish the dish with extra chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side—whether it’s rice, tortillas, or something else you love.
Tip:
For the best flavor in this Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake. Let the chicken marinate in the fresh salsa mixture. For at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the lime juice and spices. To tenderize the chicken. While infusing it with the vibrant flavors of the cilantro, jalapeño, and tomatoes. If you have time. Prepare the salsa a few hours in advance. Or even the night before. Which will intensify the flavors. As they meld together. You’ll end up with a dish. That bursts with freshness. In every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the salsa. And season the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. And assemble the dish right before baking.
What can I use instead of Mozzarella cheese?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are great substitutes. That will still give you that wonderful melty texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat. You can add more red chili pepper flakes. Or leave the seeds in the jalapeño when chopping.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Fresh Salsa Chicken Bake
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast boneless and skinless
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt divided
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes
- 2 c diced grape or Roma tomatoes
- 1/2 c chopped onion
- 1/3 c chopped jalapeño
- 1/2 c fresh chopped cilantro
- 1/2 lime juiced
- 1 c shredded Mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop the chicken breasts. Into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and half of the salt. To create the salsa.
- Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish. Season with cumin, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, and the remaining salt and pepper. Then toss to coat.
- Spread the salsa mixture evenly over the chicken. Top with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Until the chicken is fully cooked. And the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with extra cilantro. And serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
