Description
A quick and easy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake bursting with bold, tangy flavors and melty cheese. This one-pan, family-friendly recipe features juicy chicken breasts baked with fresh salsa verde, shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, onions, and garlic. Ready in under 40 minutes, it delivers a comforting, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh salsa verde
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar)
- ½ cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and drizzle with olive oil to enhance flavor and prepare them to soak up the salsa verde.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of salsa verde on the bottom of your baking dish. Place the chicken breasts on top, then spoon the remaining salsa verde generously over each piece. Evenly scatter the chopped onions and minced garlic across the chicken and dish.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the salsa-covered chicken to create a creamy, savory topping.
- Bake Until Golden and Juicy: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a bright, herbal finish. Serve warm with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Use fresh or high-quality store-bought salsa verde for best flavor.
- Do not overbake; remove chicken as soon as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it moist.
- Let chicken rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even baking.
- Fully cover the salsa with cheese to lock in moisture and create a golden crust.
- Use a glass or ceramic baking dish to ensure even heat distribution and avoid burning edges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Salsa Verde, Chicken Bake, Quick Dinner, Mexican, Easy Meal, One-Pan, Family-Friendly, Weeknight Dinner, Gluten Free