Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake
Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, bursting with the flavors of tangy salsa verde. This recipe is not only comforting and satisfying but also ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its creamy texture and zesty kick, this dish will evoke nostalgia, bringing families back to the dinner table for heartwarming meals. This step-by-step recipe ensures that anyone can whip up this flavorful bake quickly and easily, making it a must-try for your next culinary adventure.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake. First and foremost, the ingredients are minimal yet packed with flavors that create a satisfying meal. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The bake comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy your time with family or friends rather than standing over the stove.
Moreover, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser! The combination of creamy chicken, zesty salsa verde, and perfectly cooked broccoli makes for a delicious meal that appeals to both children and adults alike. You can serve it over rice or orzo, creating a complete, hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, making it a practical choice for meal prep.
Ingredients
To create your Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a delightful cheesy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños (optional): Introduces a hint of spice and tang.
- 2 teaspoons dried dill: Offers a refreshing herbal note.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, cold and sliced: Provides richness and a beautiful golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: Enhances flavor and adds a bit of color.
- 1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk: Ensures a luscious creamy texture.
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs: The star protein of this dish, juicy and tender.
- 1 tablespoon dried chives: Contributes a mild onion flavor.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Helps create that irresistible creamy sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a hint of smoky depth.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 1 cup salsa verde: The zesty heart of the dish that brings all the flavors together.
- 3 cups chopped broccoli: Adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for elevating all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it will be hot enough to cook the chicken properly and meld all the flavors together.
Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large baking dish, combine the boneless chicken pieces with cream cheese, dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill, garlic powder, and paprika. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Incorporate the Vegetables and Sauce: Add the chopped onion, salsa verde, and pickled jalapeños (if using) to the chicken mixture. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk and mix in 1/2 cup of the grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
Add Butter and Broccoli: Place the sliced butter on top of the mixture, spreading it evenly for extra richness. Then, take the chopped broccoli and spread it evenly over the chicken mixture.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The mixture should be bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Finish with Cheese: Once cooked, gently stir the dish to combine everything, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated parmesan over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is delightful when served hot over a bed of fluffy rice or orzo.
Tips & Tricks
- For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in salsa verde for a couple of hours before preparing the dish.
- If you like extra spice, add more jalapeños or even some diced green chilies into the mixture.
- A sprinkle of fresh cilantro as a garnish before serving can brighten the dish even further.
- For a lower-calorie version, substitute the heavy cream with a light version, or use plain Greek yogurt for added protein.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving options. It pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or orzo, which soak up the delicious creamy sauce. You can also serve it with a simple side salad for some crunch and freshness. For special occasions, consider pairing it with homemade corn tortillas for a true fiesta feel or incorporating it into a taco night where everyone can build their own.
This dish is not just for family dinners; it’s perfect for potlucks and gatherings. Its comforting flavors and vibrant appearance make it appealing to both young and older palates.
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and portions used, a typical serving of Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake may contain around:
- Calories: 500-600 per serving
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This dish provides a hearty balance of protein and healthy fats while featuring nutrient-rich vegetables. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Storing Tips & Variations
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
As for variations, you can easily swap out broccoli for other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers based on your preference. You could also replace the chicken with cubed firm tofu or beans for a vegetarian-friendly adaptation. Spice lovers can adjust the salsa verde to a hotter variety or add fresh chopped chilis directly into the bake for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake is an easy, comforting dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Its creamy, flavorful sauce paired with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a family-friendly meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your experience with others – we’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients and assemble the dish ahead of time. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.Is there a vegan alternative for this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and use coconut milk and vegan cream cheese for a delicious plant-based version.How can I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during the cooking process.What can I use instead of salsa verde?
If salsa verde isn’t available, you can substitute it with regular salsa or even a homemade green sauce made from tomatillos.Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn for added texture and flavors.
Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake
Ingredients
For the chicken mixture
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs Juicy and tender as the main protein.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened Creates the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk Ensures a luscious creamy texture.
- 1 cup salsa verde The zesty heart of the dish.
- 1 yellow onion, chopped 1 Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika Offers a hint of smoky depth.
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley Enhances flavor and adds a bit of color.
- 1 tablespoon dried chives Contributes a mild onion flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried dill Offers a refreshing herbal note.
- 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeños (optional) Introduces a hint of spice and tang.
Additional Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped broccoli Adds nutritious crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese For topping.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste Essential for flavor.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, cold and sliced Provides richness and a beautiful golden finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the boneless chicken pieces with cream cheese, dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill, garlic powder, and paprika. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Add the chopped onion, salsa verde, and pickled jalapeños (if using) to the chicken mixture. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk and mix in 1/2 cup of the grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Place the sliced butter on top of the mixture and spread it evenly. Then spread the chopped broccoli over the chicken mixture.
Baking
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, gently stir the dish to combine everything, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated parmesan over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is delightful when served hot over a bed of fluffy rice or orzo.