Description
This Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a flavorful, zesty dish combining fresh salsa fresca with spiced chicken breast and melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for craving Mexican flavors, it is low carb, high in protein, gluten-free, and low in calories, making it an ideal healthy meal option for a quick dinner.
Ingredients
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
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Make Tomato Mix: In a bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped white onion, chopped jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the diced chicken breast in the baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, black pepper, and the remaining 1/4 tsp salt. Toss gently to coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the seasoning.
- Add Tomato Mix and Cheese: Spoon the prepared tomato mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken. Then, top everything generously with shredded mozzarella cheese to create a melty, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with extra chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy this vibrant, healthy meal immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is diced uniformly to cook evenly.
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity based on heat preference.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best bright flavor in the salsa fresca.
- This dish is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
