Go Back
+ servings

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake

Busy nights? No problem! This Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is the ultimate one-pan, 30-minute dinner that’s juicy, cheesy, and packed with fresh flavor. With 31g of protein per serving, it’s a nutritious meal that keeps you full—without the extra hassle.
Print Pin
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Keyword: Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp low-sodium taco seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper

For the Salsa Fresca:

  • 3 tomatoes, coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup jalapeños (about 4), seeded and chopped
  • 1 cup red or white onion, coarsely chopped
  • 1 small bunch cilantro, finely chopped (reserve some for garnish)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Casserole:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella or white cheddar cheese
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Season the Chicken:
    • Place the chicken pieces in the baking dish.
    • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
    • Stir well to evenly coat the chicken, then spread it out in a single layer.
  3. Make the Salsa Fresca:
    • In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, cilantro, garlic, and lime juice.
    • Mix well and spread the salsa evenly over the chicken.
  4. Add Cheese & Bake:
    • Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the salsa.
    • Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
  5. Garnish & Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with reserved cilantro.
    • Serve hot with your favorite side dish like rice, quinoa, or tortillas!

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
  • Freeze: Keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Nutrition

Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 533mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g
Save