Salsa Chicken

Whip up my Oven Baked Salsa Chicken for a family-friendly meal. It's easy to prepare and full of delicious flavor!

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 50

Total Time 55

Servings servings

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Line a large baking pan or baking dish with foil.
Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
6 bone-in chicken thighs, Salt and pepper
Drizzle the olive oil in the bottom of the pan or dish.
3 tablespoons olive oil
Place chicken skin side down without crowding. Make sure to leave some space between pieces. The less crowded the chicken, the better it will crisp.
Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until skin has browned and begun to crisp.
Remove the pan from the oven and turn the chicken skin side up. Spoon enough salsa to cover (about 2-3 tablespoons) over each piece.
1 cup salsa
Return to oven and cook for an additional 20 minutes or until the juices clear when pierced with a fork.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For bone-in chicken thighs, I usually go slightly higher (175-185°F (79-85°C) for the most tender, juicy meat. That extra time allows the connective tissue to break down for better texture.
Store any leftovers in a covered container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.