Go Back
Salsa Chicken Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Youssef Hb

Salsa Chicken Skillet

A flavor-packed, tender chicken dish that combines seasoned poultry with a savory tomato-based salsa and melted cheddar cheese. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a balance of acidity, spice, and comfort. By searing the chicken first and finishing in the oven, you ensure a juicy, restaurant-quality result that is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
  • 0.5 tbsp chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1.5 cups chunky store-bought salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375˚F.
  2. Pound the chicken breasts using a meat mallet until they reach an even thickness.
  3. Season the chicken breasts thoroughly with cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 2 minutes per side until golden-brown.
  6. Remove skillet from heat and pour half of the salsa into the bottom of the pan.
  7. Place the chicken on top of the salsa and cover with the remaining salsa.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
  9. Remove from oven, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and place back in the oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.

Notes

Use smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor. You can serve this over rice, quinoa, or with a side of warm tortillas. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.