This Cheesy Salsa Chicken with Jalapeño is a quick and delicious dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken, cheddar cheese, and spicy salsa with a hint of heat from fresh jalapeño. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it’s packed with flavor and requires only a few simple ingredients. Whether served with rice, tortillas, or a side salad, it’s sure to satisfy!
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
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Total Time: 35-40 minutes
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Yield: Serves 4
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Cuisine: Mexican-inspired, Comfort Food
Full List of Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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1/2 tsp ground cumin
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6 tbsp salsa
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150g (5 oz) cheddar cheese, shredded
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1/2 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and ground cumin on both sides.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown on the outside. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Add the Garlic and Salsa
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the salsa, stirring to combine. Let the salsa simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add the Chicken Back
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the salsa over the top of the chicken. Let the chicken simmer in the salsa for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken breasts, allowing it to melt into the salsa. If desired, sprinkle the chopped jalapeño on top for an extra kick of heat. Cover the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
Once the cheese has melted and everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the cheesy salsa chicken on its own or with your favorite sides, such as rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 380
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Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Cholesterol: 105mg
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Sodium: 670mg
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Carbohydrates: 7g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugars: 3g
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Protein: 38g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This recipe takes inspiration from Mexican cuisine, where salsa and cheese are commonly used to flavor meats like chicken. The combination of cheese, salsa, and spices brings out the bold flavors in this dish, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t require much prep but is bursting with flavor. The addition of jalapeños adds a fresh kick to the dish, enhancing its authenticity.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
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Flavorful: The combination of salsa, cheddar cheese, and cumin creates a dish that’s savory and slightly spicy, with layers of flavor in every bite.
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Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño or swapping it for another pepper variety.
Health Benefits
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Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is important for muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
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Cheddar Cheese provides calcium, which supports bone health, and protein for muscle maintenance.
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Olive Oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
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Jalapeños contain capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism and improve digestion.
Serving Suggestions
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With Rice: Serve the cheesy salsa chicken over steamed rice for a complete, filling meal.
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With Tortillas: Serve the chicken with tortillas for a fun taco night. You can add extra toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or shredded lettuce.
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With Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or Mexican-style slaw for a lighter option.
Cooking Tips
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Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken as it can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Adjust the Spiciness: If you don’t like too much heat, reduce or omit the jalapeño. Alternatively, add more for a spicier kick.
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Use Fresh Salsa: Fresh homemade salsa will give the dish a vibrant and tangy flavor, but store-bought salsa can work just fine for a quicker option.
Variations to Try
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Make it Spicier: If you enjoy a spicier dish, add more jalapeños or experiment with other chili peppers like serrano or habanero.
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Add Vegetables: Add bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes to the salsa for added texture and flavor.
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Use Different Cheese: Swap out cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Cheesy Salsa Chicken with Jalapeño is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, salsa, and melted cheese. With the optional kick from jalapeños and the savory depth of cumin, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether served over rice, in tortillas, or with a fresh salad, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use mozzarella, pepper jack, or any cheese that melts well.
3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese entirely. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and salsa in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply heat the salsa and chicken, then top with cheese.
5. Can I cook this in the oven instead of the skillet?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. Then, top with salsa and cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
6. How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness depends on how much jalapeño you add. If you prefer less heat, you can omit the jalapeño or use a milder pepper.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and salsa for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
8. Can I add beans to the dish?
Yes, you can add black beans or kidney beans to the salsa for added protein and texture.
9. Can I serve this with sides?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a side salad.
10. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.