Flavorful Baked Queso Chicken (Printable View)
Cheesy baked chicken featuring queso, bold spices, and a fresh tomato-cilantro topping.
# Ingredient List:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
03 -
1 teaspoon chili powder
04 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
Salt, to taste
08 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ Toppings
09 -
1 cup queso cheese dip or melted queso cheese
10 -
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack)
11 -
1 medium tomato, diced
12 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
13 -
1/4 cup diced jalapeño (optional, for additional heat)
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Set the oven to preheat at 375°F to allow even cooking.
02 -
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
03 -
Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, ensuring complete coverage. Evenly coat the chicken on all sides with the prepared spice mixture.
04 -
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
05 -
Remove the dish from the oven. Spoon the queso cheese dip evenly over each chicken breast.
06 -
Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese and diced tomatoes over the queso-covered chicken.
07 -
Return the dish to the oven and bake an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and is bubbling.
08 -
Remove from oven. Garnish with chopped cilantro and optional diced jalapeño. Serve immediately with your preferred sides.
# Supplementary Details:
01 -
Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. Allowing the chicken to rest a few minutes after baking helps retain juices.