Description
Make this easy Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake loaded with juicy tomatoes, cilantro, and melty cheese. A healthy, vibrant, one-pan dinner ready in just 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Tomato Mix:
2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
1 medium white onion, chopped
1 large jalapeño, chopped
A bunch of cilantro, chopped
1/2 lime, juiced
1/2 tsp salt, divided
For the Chicken:
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 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Prepare a 9×13 casserole dish and spray it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Tomato Salsa
In a large bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, chopped jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and half of the salt. Stir everything together well so the flavors start to meld. This fresh salsa will bake down slightly, creating a juicy, flavorful topping for the chicken.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Place the diced chicken breast pieces into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cumin, paprika powder, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. Use your hands or a spoon to toss the chicken until every piece is coated with seasoning.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Spoon the tomato salsa evenly over the seasoned chicken. Top everything with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly layer over the juicy chicken and salsa.
Step 5: Bake and Garnish
Place the dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.