Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned.
Transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: Serves 4