Simple Mexican Style Chicken
A quick and flavorful Mexican-style chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts baked in spicy picante sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the chicken breasts in a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Pour the entire jar of picante sauce over the chicken.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Before serving, top with shredded mozzarella cheese and let it melt.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the picante sauce. If you prefer cheese with a stronger flavor, try substituting the mozzarella with pepper jack cheese. Ensure the chicken is evenly layered for consistent cooking; use chicken thighs if you like darker meat with more flavor. Adjust baking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and alongside warm tortillas or rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Sour Cream Enchiladas for a hearty feast or with a side of black beans for extra protein. For a fresh touch, add a simple salad or guacamole to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Mexican Style Chicken contains roughly 338 calories, with 29g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 682mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's important to thaw them completely before layering them in the dish. Cooking time may increase slightly, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I substitute for picante sauce?
If you don't have picante sauce, you can use salsa or even a homemade sauce made from diced tomatoes, onions, and spices. Adjust the seasoning to your taste to maintain the Mexican flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Layer the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Add the cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking to melt.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).