Why do people put mayo on chicken before cooking?

People often spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on chicken before cooking to help lock in moisture and boost browning. Mayo contains oil and egg, which helps develop a golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. It can also act as a flavor binder when mixing in spices or breadcrumbs. While this trick isn’t necessary for chicken potato salsa , it’s commonly used in grilling or oven-roasting for extra tenderness.

Do potato chips and salsa go together?

Absolutely. While it may sound unconventional, potato chips and salsa are a crunchy, satisfying combo. The saltiness of the chips contrasts beautifully with the acidity and spice of the salsa. You can even use chips to scoop up leftover chicken potato salsa for a fun, snack-style twist. It’s a casual, crowd-pleasing option perfect for game days or lazy weekends.

Can you eat chicken and potatoes together?

Yes and it’s a classic combo for a reason. Chicken and potatoes are a nutritional match, providing lean protein and complex carbs in one balanced plate. In a dish like chicken potato salsa , the flavors are further elevated by the salsa, which adds moisture, spice, and brightness. It’s comfort food with benefits easy to digest, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable.

Can you marinate raw chicken and potatoes together?

While you can marinate chicken and potatoes together , it’s not always recommended. Raw chicken can carry bacteria like salmonella, which could transfer to the potatoes if not handled or cooked properly. If you choose to marinate them in the same bowl, ensure everything reaches a safe internal temperature during cooking. In the case of chicken potato salsa , the dish skips traditional marination and instead roasts everything with seasoning and salsa resulting in rich flavor without the extra prep time or cross-contamination risks.

Chicken Potato Salsa – The Best 30-Minute Sheet Pan Dinner

Name: Chicken Potato Salsa | The Best One-Pan Dinner in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 lb baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered; 4 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1–1.25 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 8 oz chunky salsa; 2 tbsp lime juice (optional); 1–2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)

Description

This easy one-pan chicken potato salsa dinner is bursting with bold flavor and ready in just 30 minutes! Juicy, tender chicken and golden potatoes roast together with chunky salsa for a no-fuss, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered
4 tbsp olive oil, divided
1–1.25 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
8 oz chunky salsa
2 tbsp lime juice (optional)
1–2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F. If using convection, turn it on for crispier results. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
Add the halved or quartered baby Yukon potatoes to the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss to coat. Arrange them cut-side down in a single layer. Roast for 15 minutes.
Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Add the diced chicken and red bell pepper to the pan. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together with a spatula to coat evenly.
Flip the potatoes cut-side up so the salsa can stick.
Spoon the chunky salsa evenly over the entire mixture. Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Optional: Drizzle with fresh lime juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Storage: Recipe will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 481kcal
Fat: 19g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 48g
Cholesterol: 120mg