Easy Salsa Chicken in the Oven

This salsa chicken in the oven recipe is such an easy and flavorful weeknight dinner. What I love about this Easy and Healthy Recipe is how simple and (mostly) hands off it is. Just a few ingredients and you're ready to cook!

I make this whenever I do not really feel like cooking but still want a healthy option for dinner. It makes great leftovers and is easy to switch up with different salsas or toppings.

If you like this dish, you should try my Keto Chicken Enchilada Casserole or my quick Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad with Balsamic Tomatoes.

Why You Will Love This Dinner

Easy cooking – just season, bake, and top!

Healthy ingredients – lean chicken, fresh avocado, and a pantry staple salsa.

Versatile meal – use it for tacos, rice bowls, or a quick protein-packed dinner.

Ingredients

• chicken breasts
• salsa - grab your favorite salsa or pico de Gallo!
• avocados- to top after baking the chicken
• fresh cilantro- herbs to bring the dish to life
• lime - to keep avocados fresh
• shredded Monterey Jack cheese- adds a creamy addition
• Salt and pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat

Use your favorite salsa flavor: mild, spicy, or fruity.. like my The Best Berry Salsa (with Elote Corn!)

Replace Monterey Jack with cheddar or mozzarella

Add black beans or corn to your rice bowl for extra fiber

Step by step instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven.

Step 2: Score your chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with salsa then bake.

Step 4: While the chicken cooks, dice avocado and toss with lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Remove chicken from oven, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, then return to oven for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Step 6: Top the salsa chicken with the avocado mixture and serve!

Tips and Notes:

Scoring the chicken helps it cook evenly and soak up the salsa flavors.

Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Cook chicken covered with salsa at 375°F for about 20 minutes, then add cheese and cook 3–5 minutes more.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in warm tortillas for tacos

Spoon over rice and black beans for a loaded bowl

Pair with a simple green salad for a lighter meal

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of salsa or lime juice to keep it moist.

Tips:

Avoid overheating to prevent the chicken from drying out.

I hope you are Over the Spoon for this recipe!
It is my goal to inspire you to create healthy and easy meals.
It would mean the world if you could leave a review or a star rating below!