Baked Chicken Fiesta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Tomato Mix
01 -
A bunch of cilantro, chopped up small
02 -
A half teaspoon salt, divided equally
03 -
Juice from half a lime
04 -
A medium white onion, diced finely
05 -
One big jalapeño, chopped into little pieces
06 -
Two cups of cherry tomatoes, cut into tiny chunks
→ Chicken
07 -
2 lb chicken breasts, cubed and boneless
08 -
1 teaspoon paprika for some color
09 -
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
10 -
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper for seasoning
11 -
Half a teaspoon of cumin powder
12 -
A tablespoon of garlic powder for flavor
13 -
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes to add some heat
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that's warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spray it lightly with cooking spray so the food won't stick and cleanup's less work.
02 -
Combine the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeños in a mixing bowl. Pour in lime juice and sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon salt over the top. Stir it all gently to mix. Set aside so the flavors meld while you work on the chicken.
03 -
Place the chicken cubes evenly around your casserole dish. Sprinkle on paprika, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, chili flakes, and the leftover salt. Toss the chicken gently with your hands or a tool until it’s thoroughly coated.
04 -
Spread your salsa mix on top of the seasoned chicken, spreading it evenly all over. Pour in any juice from the bowl as well, so nothing goes to waste and it stays moist. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella all across the top, covering it nicely.
05 -
Place the dish into the preheated oven and leave it uncovered for about 25–30 minutes. It’s finished when the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C inside), the cheese has melted and browned just a little, and the juices have bubbled around the edges.
06 -
Take the dish out of the oven and wait 5 minutes before slicing in. Sprinkle more freshly chopped cilantro on top if you’d like. Serve it warm—maybe alongside a salad, tortillas, or rice.
# Notes:
01 -
This dish combines tender chicken, a fresh tomato mix, and melty cheese for a tasty all-in-one meal.
02 -
Want it spicier? Leave the seeds in the jalapeño or use a serrano pepper instead.
03 -
Got leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days—great for tacos or burrito fillings!