๐จโ๐ณ Instructions:
1๏ธโฃ Season the Chicken:
๐ฅ Mix chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne, salt & black pepper in a bowl.
๐ Rub the spice mix evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
2๏ธโฃ Cook the Chicken:
๐ฅ Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
๐ณ Cook chicken for 5โ7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165ยฐF / 74ยฐC).
๐ฝ Set aside to rest.
3๏ธโฃ Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
๐ง In the same skillet (or a separate pan), melt butter over medium heat.
๐พ Whisk in flour & cook for 1โ2 minutes until lightly golden.
๐ฅ Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly until smooth.
๐ง Stir in cheddar & Monterey Jack cheese, smoked paprika, chili powder & salt.
๐ซ Keep stirring until the sauce becomes smooth & creamy.
4๏ธโฃ Serve & Enjoy!
๐ Plate the chicken & generously drizzle the cheese sauce over the top.
๐ฟ Garnish with cilantro, green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
๐ก Pro Tips:
๐ Marinate chicken in lime juice before seasoning for extra flavor.
๐ Serve with rice, roasted veggies, or tortilla chips.
๐ฅฃ Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container & reheat gently before serving.
๐ Enjoy this flavorful, comforting Mexican-inspired dish! ๐ฎ๐ฅ