Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake
A delightful dish combining succulent chicken with a rich, creamy salsa verde sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 550kcal
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.
Notes
For added flavor, consider marinating chicken in salsa verde for a couple of hours before cooking. For a lower-calorie version, substitute heavy cream with a light version or Greek yogurt.