Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs. thin sliced, skinless and boneless chicken breasts (about 6 breasts)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 1/2 tsps paprika
• 1 1/2 tsps ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil (for drizzling)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking pan with parchment paper or foil to prepare for the chicken.

2. 2

   Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend.

3. 3

   Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over each piece and rub it evenly on both sides.

4. 4

   Season Chicken: Sprinkle the mixed seasonings evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, rubbing to coat thoroughly.

5. 5

   Bake Chicken: Bake the seasoned chicken in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring juices run clear and chicken is cooked through.

6. 6

   Make Cheese Sauce - Melt Butter: While the chicken bakes, melt butter over medium heat in a small saucepan.

7. 7

   Create Roux: Once the butter has melted, add the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble but is not browned.

8. 8

   Add Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, creating a smooth sauce base.

9. 9

   Add Cheese: Add the shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce and whisk constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.

10. 10

    Season Sauce: Stir in the cayenne pepper and paprika, mixing until the flavors are well combined.

11. 11

    Serve: Arrange the baked chicken breasts over your choice of grain, such as Mexican rice, quinoa, or rice pilaf.

12. 12

    Drizzle Sauce: Pour the warm cheese sauce generously over the chicken breasts.

13. 13

    Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top if desired, then serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful meal.