Baked Salsa Chicken

5 from 1 vote

If you love dishes with a Tex-Mex vibe, you will love this Baked Salsa Chicken. The flavors are spectacular and your family is sure to request this dish over and over again.

Prep Time10

Cook Time35

Total Time45

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 251kcal

Author: Abbey McDermott

Equipment

9x13 baking dish with handles

Ingredients

Chicken

½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts approx. 1½ pounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
16 ounces jarred salsa
4 ounces Colby Jack cheese shredded

Garnish

pickled red onions
jalapeños
cilantro

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375℉.
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast through the middle to create two thinner pieces. Season both sides of the chicken with the spice mixture.
Add the oil to the hot skillet. Place the chicken in the skillet. Cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
Transfer the chicken to a casserole dish. Top with the salsa. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165℉, approximately 15-20 minutes.
Top the chicken with the shredded cheese. Bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Garnish with pickled red onions, jalapeños, and cilantro. Serve with sour cream.

Notes

Can I use a packet of taco seasoning in place of the spices? A homemade spice blend allows you to control the amount of salt. However, in a pinch, pre-packaged taco or fajita seasoning mix can be used.
Do I need to sear the chicken before baking? Searing the chicken caramelizes the spices, creates a crust on the chicken, and locks in the juices while the chicken bakes. This two-step cooking method yields tender, juicy chicken.
How long does it take to bake chicken in the oven? Chicken should always be cooked until its internal temperature reaches 165°F. The amount of time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature.
Can I use chicken thighs in this recipe? If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs, prepare them in the same manner. Bake the thighs until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The cooking time may vary.

Nutrition