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Easy One-Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe with Zesty Fresh Flavors for Quick Dinners

easy one-pot salsa chicken - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot salsa chicken recipe that combines tender chicken with zesty fresh flavors, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 ½ cups store-bought salsa (medium heat recommended)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup sweet corn (frozen or canned)
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 fresh lime
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro. Measure out the salsa, beans, and corn.
  2. Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly golden but not fully cooked through.
  4. Pour the salsa over the chicken, then add the drained black beans and corn. Stir gently to combine without dislodging the chicken.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
  6. Check doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken; if not done, cover and simmer a few more minutes.
  7. Once cooked, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
  8. Serve hot, paired with rice, tortillas, or a green salad.

Notes

If salsa is thin, remove lid for last 5 minutes to reduce sauce. Searing chicken locks in moisture and flavor. Use fresh lime juice at the end for brightness. Non-stick pans ease cleanup; stainless steel pans give a nice sear. Can substitute chicken thighs for more flavor, adjusting cook time. For vegetarian option, swap chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, salsa chicken, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, chicken breasts, healthy, gluten-free