Easy Mexican Chicken Bake (Low Carb)
An easy Mexican-inspired chicken bake that is grain-free and low carb.
An easy Mexican-inspired chicken bake that is grain-free and low carb.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 cup salsa (red or green divided, i use refrigerated deli kind (lower in carbs than jarre
- 2 ounces diced green chilies (mild or hot 1/2 of 4 ounce can)
- 1 ounce can sliced black olives (drained 4)
- â½ cup chopped queso quesadilla cheese (or can use
- â½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- â½ medium size avocado (chopped)
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro for garnish * optional
- 3 tbsp sour cream garnish *optional
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 87.6945248666667 mg
- Fat 1.87484846266667 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 34.9114927443333 g
- Saturated Fat 0.498951607 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (165g)
- Sodium 98.2783468333333 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0.498951607 g
- Calories 166 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400 F (200 C), and lightly oil or grease a 9 x 13 baking dish.
- Add ¼ cup of salsa to the bottom of the pan.
- Layer chicken breasts on top of salsa.
- Spoon green chilies over chicken.
- Pour remaining 1 cup of salsa over the top of chicken.
- Sprinkle both queso quesadilla cheese and cheddar cheese over the top of salsa.
- Scatter sliced olives over the top.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until chicken is done in the center.
- Top with chopped avocado & garnish with optional chopped cilantro and add a ½ tbsp of sour cream to each serving if desired.
- Serve.
Easy Mexican Chicken Bake: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like an impossible task. But trust me, this Easy Mexican Chicken Bake is a game-changer. It's quick, easy, and the flavors are absolutely incredible. Forget complicated recipes and long prep times; this dish is all about simple ingredients and maximum flavor. I often make a double batch on Sundays, and we have delicious leftovers for lunch throughout the week. It's also incredibly versatile; feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add other vegetables, or even use leftover cooked chicken to make it even faster.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don't need any fancy cooking skills or a plethora of exotic ingredients. Just a few pantry staples and some fresh additions come together to create a truly satisfying meal. The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by the zesty salsa, spicy green chilies, and the melty goodness of the cheese. The creamy avocado on top adds a beautiful richness and a healthy dose of fats, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Are you on a low-carb diet? Perfect! This dish is naturally low in carbs. Do you have picky eaters? No problem! You can easily customize it to their preferences. Want to add some extra veggies? Go ahead! Bell peppers, onions, or even some corn would be a delicious addition. The possibilities are endless! And if you're short on time, you can even use rotisserie chicken to cut down on the cooking time even further.
This Easy Mexican Chicken Bake has become a staple in our house. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves, from my husband and kids to even my most discerning friends. It's a dish that I’m proud to serve, knowing that it’s both healthy and delicious. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. It's the perfect weeknight meal – quick, easy, and satisfying – leaving you with more time to focus on the things that matter most.
Beyond the Weeknight: This isn't just a weeknight wonder; it's also perfect for potlucks, parties, or even a casual weekend dinner with friends and family. It travels well and reheats beautifully, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The combination of cheesy goodness and savory chicken is irresistible, and the bright, fresh flavors will impress your guests every time.
Making it Your Own: Don't be afraid to experiment! Try different types of salsa – mango salsa, pineapple salsa, or even a smoky chipotle salsa could add a unique twist to the dish. You can also adjust the level of spice by using mild or hot green chilies, depending on your preference. If you're not a fan of olives, simply omit them, or substitute with another favorite ingredient.
The Bottom Line: This Easy Mexican Chicken Bake is a recipe that I truly cherish. It's a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious don't have to be mutually exclusive. It's a recipe that saves me time and energy in the kitchen, allowing me to focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with my family. So, give it a try, and I'm confident it will become a new family favorite in your home too.
