Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green chiles
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Diced tomatoes
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with a mixture of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the spices.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear it until it’s browned on both sides and cooked thoroughly, about 7-8 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a warm plate.
Crafting the Cheese Sauce:
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat, infusing the sauce with the flavors left behind by the chicken.
Whisk in the flour until a smooth consistency is achieved.
Gradually add the milk, continuously whisking to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens.
Turn the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green chiles. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is silky smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving the Masterpiece:
Arrange the cooked chicken breasts on a serving platter.
Generously ladle the warm cheese sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is enveloped in creamy goodness.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, slices of jalapeño, and diced tomatoes for an added burst of flavor and color.