Description

This Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a vibrant, one-dish wonder packed with fresh flavors and cheesy comfort. Juicy chunks of seasoned chicken are baked under a blanket of homemade salsa fresca and mozzarella for an easy weeknight meal that brings bold fiesta vibes to the dinner table—low-carb, gluten-free, and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
2 cups diced grape or Roma tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup chopped jalapeño
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1/2 lime
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dice the chicken breasts into small bite-sized chunks.
Make the Salsa Fresca
In a medium bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt. Stir well to combine.
Season the Chicken
Add the chicken to a baking dish. Sprinkle with cumin, garlic powder, red chili flakes, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to evenly coat the chicken.
Assemble the Dish
Spoon the salsa fresca mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake
Place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with extra cilantro if desired, and serve hot. Pair with rice, cauliflower rice, tortillas, or enjoy it on its own!

Notes

Customize the Heat: For more spice, leave some jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce to the salsa.
Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different flavor.
Meal Prep Tip: Dice and season the chicken in advance, and store the salsa separately in the fridge for easy assembly later.

Serving Ideas: Serve as a taco filling, burrito bowl base, or with grilled veggies for a low-carb meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Gluten-Free