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.
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.
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Ingredients
Let's get started! You will need to grab:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Taco seasoning
- Mexican blend cheese
- Salsa
- Oil
Instructions
Let's get started making our chicken!
- Step 1: Sprinkle a generous amount of taco seasoning over each side of the chicken breasts.
- 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.
- Step 3: Spoon one spoonful of salsa onto the chicken.
- 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
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.
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.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
5 Ingredient Spanish Chicken Recipe
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
Nutrition
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with [this recipe]:
Catherine
Awesome recipe and great flavor!