Imagine a dinner that transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor explosion that will have your family begging for seconds! This Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is not just another weeknight meal - it's a culinary journey that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table in just 40 minutes. With a perfect blend of zesty salsa, aromatic spices, and melted cheese, this dish promises to turn an average evening into a fiesta of deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa fresca
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes better browning.
- In a small bowl, mix together cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning blend.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, gently pressing the spices into the meat to ensure good coverage.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Pour the salsa fresca evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well-coated with the fresh salsa.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure maximum flavor absorption and better browning.
- Use fresh, high-quality salsa fresca for the most vibrant taste - homemade is always best!
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish; keep chicken breasts in a single layer for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- For extra flavor, try using pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a spicier kick.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions to add a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
