Are you looking for a flavorful dinner that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor? Look no further! Salsa chicken is a classic combination that never goes out of style. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or just plain delicious, there’s a salsa chicken recipe out there to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering salsa chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From casseroles and enchiladas to tacos, quesadillas, and more, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, fire up the stove or slow cooker, and get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these flavorful and fun salsa chicken recipes!
Classic Salsa Chicken Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of salsa, chicken, and pasta for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, and shredded cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Salsa Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe combines the comforting taste of chicken enchiladas with the tanginess of creamy salsa, creating a deliciously unique dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cream of mushroom soup, salsa, sour cream, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Dip each tortilla in warm water for 10-15 seconds, then wrap with about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture.
4. Place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this easy and delicious slow cooker recipe that combines tender chicken, tangy salsa, and creamy cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 tacos shells
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies and salsa on top of the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture into shells and topping with cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Grilled Salsa Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these zesty and juicy grilled salsa chicken skewers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. With the sweetness of the salsa balanced by the smokiness of the grill, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salsa (mild or spicy to your liking)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together salsa, olive oil, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl; toss to coat evenly with the salsa mixture.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Salsa Chicken Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tangy salsa, and sweet bell peppers to create a deliciously easy dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a healthy and satisfying meal on the table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup salsa (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in salsa, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cheesy Salsa Chicken Quesadillas
Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the flavors of juicy chicken, melted cheese, and spicy salsa in a crispy quesadilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup salsa
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked chicken, cheese, and salsa.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salsa Chicken Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for a busy day. This recipe combines the bold flavors of salsa with juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and crunchy veggies, all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup salsa
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado slices, cilantro, or lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add diced bell peppers and cumin to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until veggies are tender.
4. Stir in salsa and cook for 1 minute.
5. Serve cooked rice in a bowl, topped with chicken and pepper mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Salsa Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and mouthwatering recipe for Baked Salsa Chicken Thighs. With the combination of tender chicken, sweet salsa, and crunchy toppings, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup store-bought or homemade salsa (mild or spicy, your choice!)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled feta cheese (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Spoon 1-2 tbsp of salsa over each chicken thigh, leaving some space for even cooking.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the salsa is caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled feta cheese (if desired).
Salsa Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of salsa, chicken, and tortillas to create a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups salsa (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, salsa, chicken broth, black beans, onion, bell pepper, and cumin.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add tortilla pieces to the pot and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they’re soft and slightly dissolved.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Salsa Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Experience the perfect blend of flavors with this deliciously easy recipe. Sweet potatoes filled with juicy chicken, tangy salsa, and melted cheese make for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup salsa (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, mix shredded chicken, salsa, and chopped cilantro in a bowl.
4. Split open the baked sweet potatoes and fill each one with the chicken mixture.
5. Top with shredded cheese and return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Salsa Chicken Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of chicken, salsa, cheese, and tortilla chips. Perfect for a quick lunch or a party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup salsa
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return chicken to skillet and stir in salsa.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer. Spoon the chicken-salsa mixture over the chips.
5. Top with shredded cheese and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Salsa Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Add a fresh twist to traditional chicken wraps with this flavorful and healthy recipe. Crunchy lettuce leaves wrap around juicy salsa-glazed chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup salsa
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together salsa and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the salsa mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken on lettuce leaves, topping with crispy bacon, sliced avocado, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salsa Chicken and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the flavors of salsa, chicken, and black beans with a hint of spice, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is a great option for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies and black beans.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Salsa Chicken Fajitas
This recipe combines juicy chicken with bold flavors and crunchy vegetables to create a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup salsa (your choice of mild or spicy)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes).
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until tender (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in the salsa and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
7. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken mixture onto the tortillas and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salsa Chicken and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of salsa chicken, creamy cornbread, and melted cheese for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Perfect for families or gatherings, it’s an easy and crowd-pleasing recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup creamed corn
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups cornbread mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken breasts in boiling water until done; chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, salsa, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, creamed corn, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
6. Combine cooked chicken mixture and cornbread mix in the prepared dish. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salsa Chicken Stuffed Avocados
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocados with the bold flavors of salsa and chicken, making for a delicious and nutritious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salsa
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, cilantro, red onion
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, salsa, and lime juice until well combined.
3. Spoon the chicken mixture into each avocado half, mounding it slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with optional toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep only)
Servings: 4
Enjoy your delicious Salsa Chicken Stuffed Avocados!
Salsa Chicken Pasta Bake
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional pasta bake, this recipe combines the zest of salsa with the comfort of chicken and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, black beans, and salsa.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salsa Chicken and Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken and zucchini, this recipe combines juicy chicken with spicy salsa and tender zucchini boats for a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup salsa
– 4-6 zucchinis, sliced lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken with onion and garlic until browned.
3. Add salsa to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells intact.
5. Place zucchini boats on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Spoon chicken and salsa mixture into zucchini boats.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Elevate your dinner game with these 18 spicy salsa chicken recipes! From classic casseroles to creative twists, these flavorful dishes are sure to please. Enjoy creamy enchiladas, slow-cooked tacos, grilled skewers, and more. Try stuffing peppers or sweet potatoes for a hearty meal, or go for a lighter option like lettuce wraps. There’s even a bonus recipe for salsa chicken pasta bake! Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick weeknight dinner, this collection has got you covered.
