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Cheesy Salsa Chicken Recipe

4.9 from 93 reviews

This Cheesy Salsa Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts seasoned with classic taco spices, simmered in vibrant chunky salsa, and topped with melted Colby Jack cheese for a deliciously cheesy finish. It’s a simple stovetop dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner full of bold Tex-Mex flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 1-ounce package chicken taco seasoning
  • 4 chicken breast filets (about 1.5 pounds total, trimmed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce and Topping

  • 1 16-ounce jar chunky salsa
  • ¾ cup freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Rub the taco seasoning evenly on both sides of each chicken breast filet to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large 12-inch skillet. Add the seasoned chicken filets and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until the juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F at the thickest part.
  3. Deglaze with Salsa: Remove the chicken from the skillet and pour the chunky salsa into the hot pan to deglaze it, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes until the salsa slightly reduces.
  4. Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese on top of each chicken filet. Cover the skillet with a large lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese has fully melted. Remove from heat.
  5. Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving the cheesy salsa chicken immediately while hot and melty.

Notes

  • Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
  • For extra flavor, use homemade salsa or add a pinch of cayenne to the taco seasoning.
  • Serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • If you prefer, substitute Colby Jack with Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Cheesy Salsa Chicken, Chicken Breast Recipe, Mexican Chicken, Easy Dinner, Taco Seasoning, Melty Cheese Chicken