Fiesta in a Pan: Delicious Salsa Simmered Chicken Recipe

Are you looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful weeknight dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds? Look no further than Salsa Simmered Chicken! This recipe is incredibly versatile, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time, making it perfect for busy families or anyone who wants a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish features juicy chicken breasts simmered in a vibrant salsa, creating a rich and savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor. You can customize the heat level by choosing your favorite salsa, from mild to extra spicy. Serve it with rice, quinoa, tortillas, or your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.

## Why You’ll Love This Salsa Simmered Chicken

* **Easy and Quick:** This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Flavorful:** The salsa infuses the chicken with a delicious, slightly spicy flavor that everyone will love.
* **Versatile:** You can use any type of salsa you like, and you can serve it with a variety of sides.
* **Healthy:** Chicken is a great source of protein, and salsa is packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
* **Customizable:** Easily adjust the spice level to your liking.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses simple, readily available ingredients.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Chicken Breasts:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and evenly. You can also use chicken thighs, but they will require a longer cooking time.
* **Salsa:** Choose your favorite salsa! From mild to extra-hot, any type of salsa will work. Just be mindful of the sodium content if you’re watching your salt intake.
* **Olive Oil:** A little olive oil helps to brown the chicken and adds flavor.
* **Onion:** Adds a savory base to the sauce. Diced yellow or white onion works best.
* **Garlic:** Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
* **Chicken Broth (Optional):** Adding a splash of chicken broth can help to thin the salsa if it’s too thick and creates a richer sauce.
* **Spices (Optional):** You can add a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or oregano to enhance the flavor of the salsa. A touch of smoked paprika can also add a nice depth of flavor.
* **Cilantro (Optional):** Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous finish.
* **Lime Juice (Optional):** A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
* **Toppings (Optional):** Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or diced tomatoes.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect Salsa Simmered Chicken:

**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**

* Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help them brown better.
* Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices like chili powder, cumin, or garlic powder. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! The chicken will absorb the flavors during the simmering process.

**Step 2: Sear the Chicken**

* Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the chicken breasts without overcrowding.
* Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet.
* Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. This step is crucial for developing flavor and creating a nice crust on the chicken. Don’t move the chicken around too much while it’s searing – allow it to develop a good sear before flipping.
* Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

**Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics**

* Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**Step 4: Simmer in Salsa**

* Pour the salsa into the skillet with the onions and garlic. If using, add a splash of chicken broth to thin the salsa if needed. Stir to combine.
* Bring the salsa to a simmer.
* Gently place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the salsa.
* Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

**Step 5: Shred (Optional) and Serve**

* Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board.
* If desired, shred the chicken using two forks. This is a great option if you’re planning to use the chicken in tacos, burritos, or salads.
* Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the salsa and stir to coat.
* Squeeze a lime or two over the chicken. This will give a nice touch.
* Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or diced tomatoes, if desired.

## Tips for the Best Salsa Simmered Chicken

* **Use High-Quality Salsa:** The quality of the salsa will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Choose a salsa that you enjoy eating on its own. Freshly made salsa is always a great option, but store-bought salsa works just fine as well.
* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature (165°F or 74°C).
* **Adjust the Heat:** If you’re sensitive to spice, use a mild salsa. If you like a little heat, use a medium or hot salsa. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the spice level.
* **Let it Simmer:** Simmering the chicken in the salsa allows the flavors to meld together and create a rich, flavorful sauce. Don’t rush the simmering process!
* **Rest the Chicken:** Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing it helps to retain its juices.
* **Make it in a Slow Cooker:** This recipe also works great in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

## Serving Suggestions

Salsa Simmered Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

* **Tacos:** Serve the shredded chicken in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
* **Burritos:** Wrap the chicken in a large tortilla with rice, beans, cheese, and salsa for a hearty and satisfying burrito.
* **Salads:** Top a bed of lettuce with the chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette for a healthy and flavorful salad.
* **Rice Bowls:** Serve the chicken over rice with your favorite toppings, such as black beans, corn, avocado, and salsa.
* **Quesadillas:** Layer the chicken with cheese between two tortillas and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
* **Nachos:** Top tortilla chips with the chicken, cheese, jalapeños, and other nacho toppings and bake until the cheese is melted.
* **Serve with Sides:** Serve alongside cilantro lime rice, Spanish rice, roasted vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini), or a simple side salad.

## Variations and Additions

* **Add Vegetables:** Incorporate bell peppers, onions, corn, black beans, or zucchini into the salsa for added flavor and nutrients.
* **Creamy Salsa Chicken:** Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy and decadent sauce.
* **Black Bean and Corn Salsa:** Use black bean and corn salsa for a sweeter, more textured dish.
* **Pineapple Salsa Chicken:** Use pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
* **Add Beans:** Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans to the skillet for added protein and fiber.
* **Spicy Salsa Chicken:** Use a hotter salsa and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
* **Cheese it Up:** Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking so it melts into the salsa.
* **Use Chicken Thighs:** Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer, more flavorful dish. Chicken thighs may require a longer simmering time.

## Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make-Ahead:** Salsa Simmered Chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
* **Storage:** Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Freezing:** Salsa Simmered Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Recipe Card

**Salsa Simmered Chicken**

**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 25 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 medium onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (16-ounce) jar salsa (your favorite type)
* 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, diced tomatoes, lime wedges

**Instructions:**

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant.
4. Pour the salsa into the skillet with the onions and garlic. If using, add the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the salsa. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred using two forks, if desired. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the salsa and stir to coat.
7. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or diced tomatoes, if desired.

Enjoy this easy and delicious Salsa Simmered Chicken! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.