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    Home » Main Dishes

    5 Ingredient Spanish Chicken Recipe

    Published: Jan 5, 2025 by burntapple · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that's packed with flavor, this Spanish chicken recipe is just what you need. With only a handful of ingredients, including boneless chicken breasts, salsa, shredded Mexican blend cheese, taco seasoning, and olive oil, you can whip up a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

    Three chicken breasts topped with melted cheese are arranged on a blue and white patterned platter as part of a Spanish chicken recipe.

    Getting started making your Spanish chicken recipe

    This recipe is so simple to make and only requires a few ingredients! It's the perfect weeknight meal or it's perfect for serving to a large crowd or a Cinco de Mayo celebration.

    Jump to:
    • Getting started making your Spanish chicken recipe
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Substitutions
    • Variations
    • Storage
    • Tips
    • Serving suggestions
    • FAQ
    • Related
    • 5 Ingredient Spanish Chicken Recipe
    • Pairing

    Ingredients

    Let's get started! You will need to grab:

    The image shows a collection of ingredients laid out on a wooden surface, likely for a Spanish chicken recipe. From left to right, we see: A bag of shredded Mexican blend cheese A small bowl containing taco seasoning A jar of chunky salsa A container of chicken breasts A small container of oil This combination of ingredients suggests a recipe for a flavorful and hearty Spanish chicken dish.
    • Boneless skinless chicken breasts
    • Taco seasoning
    • Mexican blend cheese
    • Salsa
    • Oil

    Instructions

    Let's get started making our chicken!

    Four raw chicken breasts are laid out on a white cutting board. A hand is sprinkling a taco seasoning mixture over one of the breasts.
    1. Step 1: Sprinkle a generous amount of taco seasoning over each side of the chicken breasts.
    Four raw chicken breasts are laid out in a black frying pan. They have been seasoned with a taco seasoning mixture and are starting to cook.
    1. Step 2: Pour a splash of oil in a frying pan and heat to medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts until thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in the middle.
    Four chicken breasts are cooking in a black frying pan. They have been seasoned with a taco seasoning mixture and topped with a red salsa.
    1. Step 3: Spoon one spoonful of salsa onto the chicken.
    Four chicken breasts are cooking in a black frying pan. They have been seasoned with a taco seasoning mixture, topped with a red salsa, and covered with melted cheese. This is a Spanish chicken recipe.
    1. Step 4: Add a generous amount of cheese on the top of each chicken breast, cover partially and cook until cheese is melted.

    Substitutions

    You can make this recipe for a variety of different dietary needs and preferences.

    • Gluten free: This recipe is naturally gluten free.
    • Dairy free: Top with dairy free colby jack cheese in place of the Mexican blend.
    • Vegetarian and vegan: Use vegan chicken breasts in place of the chicken breasts. Just know that cooking times may vary.

    Variations

    Here are some variations you can make:

    • In place of the taco seasoning, you can use chili powder.
    • You can also rub some dry ranch seasoning in place of the taco seasoning for a ranch style Spanish chicken recipe.
    • Garnish your cooked chicken with cilantro, a spritz of lime juice, sour cream or guacamole.

    Storage

    Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for several days.

    Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the chicken from drying out. Alternatively, microwave leftovers in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

    Tips

    • Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning to ensure they cook evenly.
    • Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid dry chicken.
    • Layer Flavor: For added depth, marinate the chicken in a mixture of taco seasoning and olive oil for 1-2 hours before cooking.
    • Cheese Choices: While Mexican blend cheese is recommended, you can also use Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a mix of both.

    Serving suggestions

    Here are some delicious serving suggestions for your Spanish chicken recipe:

    • Rice: Add a fresh, tangy complement to the savory chicken with some Spanish rice, cilantro-lime rice, or coconut rice.
    • Black beans: A hearty and protein-packed side dish.
    • Tortilla chips: Use the chips to scoop up the salsa and melted cheese.
    • Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or carrots make a healthy addition.
    • Warm tortillas: Transform the chicken into tacos or burritos.

    FAQ

    Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

    Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re slightly fattier, which can add extra flavor and moisture. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may cook faster than breasts.

    What type of salsa works best for this recipe?

    Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade salsa. Chunky or smooth, mild or spicy — it’s entirely up to your taste. For extra smoky flavor, try a roasted tomato or chipotle salsa.

    How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

    Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F (74°C).

    Related

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    Three chicken breasts topped with melted cheese are arranged on a blue and white patterned platter as part of a Spanish chicken recipe.

    5 Ingredient Spanish Chicken Recipe

    Traci Wennerholm
    This Spanish chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you choose to cook it on the stovetop or in the oven, the combination of tender chicken, zesty salsa, and gooey melted cheese is irresistible. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins
    0 minutes mins
    Total Time 30 minutes mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine Mexican, spanish
    Servings 4 servings
    Calories 249 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • ½ cup salsa
    • 1 cup Mexican blend cheese shredded
    • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil

    Instructions
     

    • Instructions for Stovetop Cooking:
    • Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
    • Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
    • Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast evenly with taco seasoning, pressing gently to ensure it adheres.
    • Step 2: Sear the Chicken
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
    • Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
    • Step 3: Add Salsa and Simmer
    • Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the salsa evenly over the chicken.
    • Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    • Step 4: Add Cheese
    • Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the chicken.
    • Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Step 5: Serve
    • Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
    • Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or a simple salad.
    • Instructions for Oven Cooking:
    • Step 1: Preheat the Oven
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
    • Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
    • Rub both sides of each chicken breast evenly with taco seasoning.
    • Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional for Extra Flavor)
    • Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
    • Step 4: Add Salsa and Bake
    • Pour the salsa over the chicken in the skillet, or transfer the chicken and salsa to a baking dish.
    • Cover the skillet or baking dish with foil.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    • Step 5: Add Cheese
    • Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the chicken.
    • Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Step 6: Serve
    • Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
    • Serve immediately with sides like roasted vegetables, tortilla chips, or a green salad.

    Notes

    See notes in post for storing, reheating and serving. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 249kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 31gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 612mgPotassium: 528mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 413IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 337mgIron: 1mg
    Keyword creamy chicken recipe, Spanish chicken, spanish chicken and rice, Spanish chicken recipe
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Pairing

    These are my favorite dishes to serve with [this recipe]:

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    • A top-down view of square pieces of dark spicy chocolate on a crumpled white surface. Some of the squares have a dusting of red chili powder and a few have chocolate chips scattered around them. A sprig of greenery and a few extra chocolate chips are visible in the bottom right corner.
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    • A white bowl filled with red rice sits on a dark wooden table. A silver spoon is resting in the Spanish rice box recipe.
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    « Homemade Spanish Rice Box Recipe
    4 Ingredient Spicy Chocolate »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      5 from 1 vote

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Catherine

      January 05, 2025 at 1:44 pm

      5 stars
      Awesome recipe and great flavor!

      Reply

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