Tangy Sweet Salsa Chicken Bake
This Tangy Sweet Salsa Chicken Bake is a deliciously easy and versatile meal that you can prepare ahead of time and freeze for a later date. By simply combining flavorful ingredients like apricot jam, taco seasoning, and salsa, this recipe offers a vibrant taste that pairs beautifully with any side dish. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you crave home-cooked comfort food with minimal effort. With various variations to explore, you'll never get tired of this crowd-pleaser. Make a batch, freeze it, and enjoy a different 'dump' chicken experience each week!
6
Servings
300
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Taco seasoning mix
1 (1 1/4 ounce package)
Apricot jam
8 (ounces)
Salsa
12 (ounces)
Chicken pieces
1.5 (lbs (4-6 pieces))
Instructions
1
For immediate cooking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large baking dish, combine all ingredients: taco seasoning, apricot jam, salsa, and chicken pieces. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
3
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes (for chicken pieces) or 20-30 minutes (for chicken breasts), or until the chicken juices run clear.
4
For freezing: Add all ingredients into a 1-gallon freezer bag. Ensure to remove as much air as possible, then lay the bag flat in the freezer.
5
To thaw and cook: The night before serving, remove the bag from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator to thaw, ensuring the bag is securely closed.
6
The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7
Empty the contents of the bag into a large baking dish and bake until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear (follow the same cooking times as mentioned above).
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
20g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tangy Sweet Salsa Chicken Bake?
It is a versatile and easy meal made by combining chicken with apricot jam, taco seasoning, and salsa for a flavorful, tangy-sweet finish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are only 4 main ingredients: taco seasoning, apricot jam, salsa, and chicken pieces.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it is designed as a freezer meal that can be prepared in advance and stored in a freezer bag.
How do I prepare the chicken for freezing?
Add all ingredients into a 1-gallon freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and lay the bag flat in the freezer.
What is the best way to thaw the frozen chicken?
Remove the bag from the freezer the night before serving and place it in the refrigerator to thaw.
At what temperature should I bake the chicken?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long do I bake chicken pieces?
Chicken pieces should be baked for 45 to 60 minutes until the juices run clear.
How long do I bake chicken breasts?
Chicken breasts require a shorter cooking time of 20 to 30 minutes.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 25 grams of protein per serving.
How much fat is in this dish?
This dish contains 5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in the chicken bake?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What size of apricot jam is required?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of apricot jam.
What amount of salsa is needed?
You will need 12 ounces of salsa for this recipe.
Can I use any type of taco seasoning?
Yes, any standard 1 1/4 ounce package of taco seasoning mix will work.
What kind of chicken pieces should I use?
The recipe suggests 1.5 lbs of chicken, which is typically 4 to 6 pieces.
Is this considered a 'dump' chicken recipe?
Yes, it is a classic dump recipe where ingredients are combined and cooked with minimal prep.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
It pairs beautifully with any side dish, such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Should the chicken be coated evenly?
Yes, ensure the chicken is well-mixed and evenly coated with the sauce before baking.
Can I bake this immediately without freezing?
Absolutely, simply preheat your oven and combine the ingredients in a baking dish to cook immediately.
Is there any fiber or sugar data available?
Specific fiber and sugar counts are not provided in the current nutritional facts.
Why should I lay the freezer bag flat?
Laying the bag flat saves space in the freezer and allows the chicken to thaw more evenly.
Can I use spicy salsa?
Yes, you can adjust the heat level of the dish by choosing mild, medium, or hot salsa.
What makes the recipe 'tangy'?
The tanginess comes from the combination of the salsa and the taco seasoning.
What makes the recipe 'sweet'?
The sweetness is provided by the 8 ounces of apricot jam.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well; just ensure they reach an internal temperature where juices run clear.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as you can make multiple batches and freeze them for later use.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
While the recipe doesn't specify, using a non-stick dish or a light coating of spray can help with cleanup.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two separate freezer bags.