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Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 136 reviews

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender diced chicken breast seasoned with a robust blend of spices, topped with a fresh salsa fresca made from cherry tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice, and finished with melted mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection in the oven. This dish offers a perfect balance of zesty, smoky, and creamy elements for a satisfying, wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salsa Fresca

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1 medium white onion, chopped
  • 1 large jalapeño, chopped
  • 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, 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

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it lightly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the salsa fresca: In a medium bowl, toss together the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to create a fresh and zesty topping for the chicken.
  3. Season the chicken: Spread the diced chicken breast evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle cumin, paprika, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, black pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated with the spice mixture.
  4. Assemble the bake: Spoon the prepared salsa fresca evenly over the seasoned chicken pieces, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top to create a melty, savory layer.
  5. Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
  6. Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with additional fresh cilantro as desired. Serve warm for a delicious and comforting meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients for salsa fresca to maximize flavor.
  • Adjust jalapeño quantity to control heat level.
  • Ensure chicken is diced evenly for uniform cooking.
  • Check chicken internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.

Keywords: Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake, baked chicken, Mexican chicken recipe, salsa fresca, easy chicken bake, healthy chicken dinner

Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/salsa-fresca-chicken-bake-recipe/