Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of your favorite salsa
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken in the skillet for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden crust and are fully cooked.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, pour in the salsa and allow it to simmer gently.
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, stirring continuously until the mixture is creamy and the cheese has fully melted.
- Arrange the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish and generously ladle the cheese sauce over them.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbling and has a delightful golden hue.
- Let it rest for a few moments before serving. If desired, sprinkle with fresh cilantro for garnish.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by using mild or hot salsa.
- For a healthier option, you can use low-fat cheese and cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
