Mexican Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines the vibrant tastes of taco seasoning, salsa, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re using homemade salsa or a store-bought variety, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delicious Mexican Chicken step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (as many as needed to feed your family)
- Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 jar of salsa (homemade or store-bought)
- Mexican cheese blend (such as Kraft, or a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla)
- Green onion, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle taco seasoning generously over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. If you prefer, you can marinate the chicken in the seasoning for a few hours to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Dish
- Arrange Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Add Salsa: Pour the salsa over the chicken breasts, spreading it out evenly to cover them completely. The salsa not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during baking.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Bake: 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). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Step 4: Add Cheese
- Add Cheese: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the Mexican cheese blend generously over the top of the chicken breasts.
- Melt Cheese: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step ensures a delicious, gooey topping that complements the spicy chicken and salsa.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, flavorful garnish. The green onions add a bit of crunch and a burst of color to the dish.
- Serve: Serve the Mexican Chicken hot, with your favorite sides such as rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this easy and delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Cooking Notes
- Taco Seasoning: Use your favorite store-bought taco seasoning or make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Salsa: Homemade salsa adds a personal touch and fresh flavor, but store-bought works perfectly as well. Choose a salsa with the level of heat you prefer – mild, medium, or hot.
- Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend typically includes cheddar, Monterey Jack, and sometimes queso quesadilla or asadero cheese. Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a mix of cheeses for this recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts. They are often juicier and have a richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Mexican Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The flavors will continue to meld, making leftovers just as delicious, if not more so.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the refrigerator. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Mexican Chicken? A: Some great side dishes include Spanish rice, black beans, refried beans, a fresh green salad, or even a side of guacamole and chips. These sides complement the flavors of the Mexican Chicken perfectly and round out the meal.
Keto/Low Carb Version
This Mexican Chicken recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for keto diets. Ensure the salsa and taco seasoning used do not contain added sugars or high-carb ingredients. You can also serve it with cauliflower rice or a green salad to keep the meal low-carb.
Mexican Chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its tender, juicy chicken, zesty salsa, and melty cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The ease of preparation and the delicious results make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table!
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