Crispy Salsa Chicken

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Crispy Salsa Chicken that's bursting with flavor and texture! Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts are coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust, seared to golden perfection, and then baked under a blanket of zesty salsa and melted cheddar cheese. This easy, family-friendly recipe combines the bold flavors of garlic, smoked paprika, and cilantro for a satisfying dish that feels both comforting and exciting. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a deliciously simple way to bring Tex-Mex flair to your table. Serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this dish is a flavorful winner!

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 cups salsa (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer.

Step 2

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Step 3

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4

Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it fully in panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure an even coating.

Step 5

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the breaded chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.

Step 6

Spoon a generous amount of salsa over each chicken breast, evenly covering the top surface. Sprinkle each with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for garnish before serving.

Step 9

Serve the Crispy Salsa Chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1512.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2858.4

Total Fat 103.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 38.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 1065.1mg	0%
Sodium 6235.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 185.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.0g	0%
Total Sugars 22.5g
Protein 284.0g	0%

Vitamin D 82IU	0%
Calcium 1063.6mg	0%
Iron 18.5mg	0%
Potassium 1116.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.2%

Protein: 40.4%

Carbs: 26.4%