Zesty Low-Carb Mexican Chicken Bake
This Zesty Low-Carb Mexican Chicken Bake blends the bold flavors of taco seasoning and salsa to create a delicious, healthy dish that's perfect for anyone following a low-carb or South Beach Diet. With juicy chicken breasts topped with tangy salsa and a melty layer of low-fat cheddar cheese, this recipe comes together in less than an hour and satisfies your craving for Mexican cuisine without the guilt. Serve alongside my Mexican Jumping Beans for a complete meal that's both nutritious and delightful. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or meal-prepping for the week ahead!
N/A
Servings
211
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 ((4 ounce each))
taco seasoning
2 teaspoons ((preferably homemade with no sugar added))
salsa
1/2 cup ((any preferred degree, low-sugar recommended))
shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
1/2 cup ((Mexi-blend preferred))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure an even bake.
2
Lightly spray a small, shallow baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with taco seasoning, ensuring an even coat for maximum flavor.
4
Place the seasoned chicken in the baking dish, then spoon salsa generously over the top of each breast, allowing it to soak in during baking.
5
Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
6
In the final 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded low-fat cheddar cheese evenly over each chicken breast.
7
Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
5g
Carbs
31g
Protein
1g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zesty Low-Carb Mexican Chicken Bake?
It is a healthy dish blending taco seasoning, salsa, chicken, and melted cheese, designed for low-carb diets.
Is this recipe suitable for the South Beach Diet?
Yes, it is specifically noted as being perfect for anyone following the South Beach Diet.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 211 calories.
What is the carbohydrate count for this dish?
This recipe is very low in carbs, containing only 5g per serving.
At what temperature should I preheat my oven?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
How long does the chicken need to bake?
The chicken should bake for approximately 45 minutes in total.
What type of chicken is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for two 4-ounce boneless skinless chicken breasts.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?
Lightly spray a small, shallow baking dish with non-stick cooking spray before adding the chicken.
What kind of taco seasoning is recommended?
Preferably a homemade version with no sugar added to keep it low-carb.
Can I use any type of salsa?
Yes, you can use any degree of heat, but a low-sugar variety is recommended.
When should I add the cheese to the chicken?
The cheese should be added during the final 5 minutes of baking.
What type of cheese is best for this bake?
Shredded low-fat cheddar cheese is recommended, specifically a Mexi-blend.
How much protein is in this meal?
This dish is high in protein, providing 31g per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
There are 9g of fat per serving.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, there is approximately 1g of fiber per serving.
What is a recommended side dish for this chicken?
Mexican Jumping Beans are suggested as a perfect nutritional accompaniment.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Yes, it is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or for prepping meals ahead of time.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is considered a convenient one-dish meal.
How many ingredients are required?
This recipe is simple and only requires 4 main ingredients.
Can I make this recipe in under an hour?
Yes, the entire process, including baking, comes together in less than an hour.
Is the chicken baked covered or uncovered?
The chicken should be baked uncovered.
How much taco seasoning should I use?
Use 2 teaspoons of taco seasoning to coat both sides of the chicken.
How much salsa is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of salsa shared across the chicken breasts.
Can I use full-fat cheese instead?
You can, but the nutritional values for fat and calories will increase.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness depends on the type of salsa and taco seasoning you choose to use.
What size baking dish is needed?
A small, shallow baking dish is sufficient for the two chicken breasts.
How much cheese is used per serving?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of cheese total for two chicken breasts, which is 1/4 cup per serving.
Does this recipe contain any added sugar?
No, provided you use sugar-free taco seasoning and low-sugar salsa.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your taco seasoning and salsa do not contain gluten additives.