Cowboy chicken

Cowboy Chicken features tender chicken breasts baked in a tangy, slightly sweet salsa sauce made with brown sugar and mustard. It's an easy, family-friendly dish perfect for busy weeknights.

27 Jan 2026
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
2 cups salsa sauce
3 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp mustard
Cowboy chicken

Cowboy Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a tangy, slightly sweet salsa sauce. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it's hot and ready to bake the chicken to perfection.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the dish and make for easier cleanup later.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, mix together the salsa sauce, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well blended.
4. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour the Sauce:
Pour the salsa mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be bubbly and slightly thickened.
7. Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the chicken more tender.
8. Optional Garnish:
For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.

Cowboy Chicken is an easy and delicious recipe that brings a burst of flavors with minimal effort. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for a group, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your meal and don't forget to experiment with different salsa flavors to keep things exciting!

Cowboy chicken FAQ:

How long do I bake Cowboy Chicken?

Bake the Cowboy Chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It's best to thaw the chicken breasts before baking to ensure even cooking. Frozen chicken may require additional cooking time, possibly 10-15 minutes more, but this can vary.

What can I substitute for salsa in this recipe?

You can substitute salsa with diced tomatoes and additional spices like chili powder and onion powder. Alternatively, a homemade sauce made from crushed tomatoes with seasoning can work well.

How should I store leftovers from Cowboy Chicken?

Store any leftover Cowboy Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

What sides pair well with Cowboy Chicken?

Cowboy Chicken pairs nicely with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with corn or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips:

- For an extra kick, use spicy salsa sauce or add chopped jalapeños to the mix.

- Marinate the chicken breasts in the salsa mixture for a few hours before cooking to infuse more flavor.

- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the salsa sauce in a pan to reduce it before combining it with the chicken.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions just before serving for a fresh touch.

- Pair the dish with a side of black beans and corn for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 210kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 2.38g
Sugar 12g
Fat 3.38g

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