Give Weeknight Chicken a Flavor Boost with Easy Salsa Chicken

Bored of dry, bland chicken breast? Give your mealtime routine a tasty makeover with juicy salsa chicken! Boneless chicken breasts are simmered in a quick homemade salsa made right in the skillet from tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic and lime juice. As the sauce reduces, it infuses the chicken with incredible Southwestern flavor. Topped with shredded cheese and cilantro, this simple chicken is vibrant, fresh and full of zing. Ready to fiesta?

Start with Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

This recipe works best with thicker, juicier chicken breasts that are about 1 1/2 pounds total for 4 servings. Avoid super thin cutlets which will dry out. You want tender, flavorful meat.

Quality Chicken = Quality Meal

Don't skimp on subpar chicken. Get the good stuff for the tastiest results!

Sear the Chicken for Color and Flavor

Start by searing the breasts in a little olive oil over medium-high heat until nicely browned, about 3 minutes per side. This caramelization adds incredible depth.

Brown That Bird!

Wait for those nice sear marks to form before flipping. Don't rush this essential step.

Make Quick Salsa in the Skillet

Remove chicken and make fast no-cook salsa right in the skillet with tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic, lime juice and cilantro. Bring to a simmer until fragrant.

Use What You Have

Swap in different spices, fresh tomatoes or salsa to customize with on-hand ingredients.

Simmer Chicken in the Salsa

Return the seared chicken and any juices to the skillet. Spoon salsa over top and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and soaked in flavor.

Let Those Flavors Mingle

Don't rush the simmering process. This allows the chicken to fully absorb all that fabulous salsa flavor.

Finish with Cheese and Cilantro

Right before serving, sprinkle the chicken with shredded cheese like Monterey jack or cheddar so it melts. Top with more fresh cilantro for color and brightness.

Take It Over the Top

The melted cheese adds a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the juicy salsa chicken.

Easy Weeknight Side Options:

- Cilantro lime rice

- Black beans or pinto beans

- Roasted sweet potato wedges

- Carrot sticks or pepper strips

Let's Recap This Simple Salsa Chicken

To make this fresh, full-flavored chicken for busy weeknights:

1. Sear boneless chicken breasts first.

2. Make quick no-cook salsa.

3. Simmer chicken in salsa until cooked through.

4. Finish with melted cheese and cilantro.

Top 5 Salsa Chicken Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! This method works great with boneless thighs too.

Can I prepare the salsa ahead?

Yes, mix up the salsa ingredients (except for cilantro) up to 3 days ahead, then simmer with chicken when ready.

What sides pair well?

Rice, beans, roasted veggies, salad, avocado, etc. Just avoid heavier creamy sides.

Can I use store-bought salsa?

You can substitute jarred salsa to save time, just adjust seasoning to your taste.

How should I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days. Burritos are great for repurposing leftovers!

In Conclusion

With just a few basic ingredients like canned tomato sauce and spices, you can transform boring chicken breasts into vibrant, flavor-loaded salsa chicken. The method is totally adaptable to what you have on hand. So simple, budget-friendly and insanely delicious!