Name: Cheesy Salsa Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 1-ounce package chicken taco seasoning; 4 chicken breast filets (about 1.5 pounds total, trimmed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 16-ounce jar chunky salsa; ¾ cup freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese

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Introduction

Cheesy Salsa Chicken is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines tender chicken breast with zesty taco seasoning, tangy salsa, and melted cheese. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors that everyone will love.

A close-up image of a fork holding a piece of grilled chicken covered with melted yellow cheese, showing the inside of the chicken as cooked white meat with a slightly charred brown surface. Below the fork, the dish on a white plate has several pieces of grilled chicken layered with melted cheese and sprinkled with green cilantro leaves. On the left side of the plate, there is a serving of white rice. In the background, a white cup filled with lime wedges is visible, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1-ounce package chicken taco seasoning
4 chicken breast filets (about 1.5 pounds total, trimmed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 16-ounce jar chunky salsa
¾ cup freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Rub the taco seasoning evenly on both sides of the chicken breast filets.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large 12-inch skillet. Cook the chicken filets for about 5 minutes on each side until the juices run clear or an instant-read thermometer reaches 165°F at the thickest part.
Step 3: Remove the chicken from the skillet. Pour the salsa into the pan to deglaze, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Return the chicken filets to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes until the salsa reduces slightly.
Step 4: Lower the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over each chicken filet. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts completely. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Optionally, sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately for a delicious, cheesy meal.

Tips & Variations

Use a mixture of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for a richer flavor.
Swap chunky salsa for a smoother salsa verde for a fresh twist.
Serve over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens to make it a complete meal.
For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the taco seasoning before rubbing on the chicken.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, covering to keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.

How to Serve

A close-up of three thick chicken breasts in a white cast iron pan, each covered with a melted layer of yellow and white shredded cheese, sprinkled with small green cilantro leaves. The chicken sits in a dark reddish-brown sauce with a glossy, slightly chunky texture, surrounding the edges of the pan. A silver spatula lifts the front piece, showing the cheesy top and slightly charred chicken beneath. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with some shredded cheese and cilantro on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning absorption. If using frozen, thaw completely before starting.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Colby Jack cheese?

Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mild cheddar cheese will work well as alternatives. Choose a cheese that melts smoothly and complements the salsa flavors.