Salsa Chicken
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
15 mins
-
Cook Time
40 mins
-
Total Time
55 mins
-
Servings
4 people
-
Calories
612 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
Salsa Chicken
Description
Salsa Chicken begins by pounding chicken breasts thin and seasoning them with taco seasoning for a flavorful crust. The chicken is seared in olive oil to develop a golden surface. Separately, cream cheese is spread evenly in a baking dish, then layered with refried beans, salsa, and the seared chicken. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses is added on top before baking covered, then uncovered to brown the cheese. This cooking method yields tender chicken coated in creamy and tangy layers while the melted cheese adds richness and a melty finish. Garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley adds brightness to this comforting dish.
It can be served as a main dish accompanied by rice or tortillas for a complete meal.
Storing leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days preserves freshness. Using freshly shredded cheese is recommended for better melt and flavor. The recipe allows flexibility with salsa varieties and bean brands.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breast about 1 ¾ lbs, large, boneless, skinless
- 1 oz. taco seasoning packet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz. cream cheese at room temperature
- 16 oz. refried beans
- 16 oz. salsa equal to 2 cups
- 3/4 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 3/4 cups Monterey jack cheese shredded
- parsley or cilantro, fresh, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°.
- Slice the chicken in half lengthwise to create 2-3 thinner slices. Place in a gallon freezer bag (or in between saran wrap) and use the textured side of a meat mallet to pound it to ½ inch thick. Pat completely dry.
- Season each side with taco seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until a golden crust has developed. Set aside.
- Spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer on the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. (You can also use a round 12-inch baking dish.)
- Spread the refried beans on top, then add the salsa, followed by the chicken.
- Add the cheese on top of the chicken. Cover and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve!
Notes
- Store this dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Shredding cheese freshly from a block enhances the melt quality and flavor over pre-shredded varieties.
- You can use different salsas according to taste or opt for homemade salsa as an alternative.
- Refried beans and cream cheese brands can be substituted but maintain the layers for best texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 612 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 612kcal | 31% |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | 9% |
| Protein | 32g | 64% |
| Fat | 42g | 65% |
| Saturated Fat | 21g | 105% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 133mg | 44% |
| Sodium | 2477mg | 103% |
| Potassium | 610mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 8g | 32% |
| Sugar | 11g | 22% |
| Vitamin A | 2457IU | 49% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 435mg | 44% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
