Description
Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a vibrant, flavorful baked chicken dish that combines juicy diced chicken breasts with a fresh salsa fresca made from cherry tomatoes, jalapeño, onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and seasoned with a blend of spices, this easy one-pan meal bakes in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s both colorful and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Salsa Fresca
- 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 (from the 1/2 tsp divided salt)
For the Chicken
- 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 (remaining half of the 1/2 tsp salt)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish with oil to prevent sticking.
- Make the Salsa Fresca: In a medium bowl, mix together the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir well to combine and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Place the diced chicken breast evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the chicken with cumin, paprika powder, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, black pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss or stir to make sure all the pieces are well coated with the seasoning.
- Assemble: Spoon the salsa fresca mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken pieces. Then evenly spread the shredded mozzarella cheese atop the salsa layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered 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.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with additional fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful salsa fresca chicken bake!
Notes
- For extra heat, add more jalapeño or sprinkle additional red chili flakes.
- You can substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a variation in flavor.
- If you prefer crispier cheese, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired