Spiced Chicken Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Prep

01 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
02 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
03 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - Olive oil
07 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
08 - 1 1/2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced (you'll need about 6)
09 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
11 - 1 teaspoon onion powder

→ Cheese Sauce Mix

12 - 2 tablespoons plain flour
13 - 1/4 teaspoon paprika
14 - 2 tablespoons butter
15 - 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
16 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
17 - Freshly shredded sharp cheddar (1 cup)
18 - 1 cup milk

→ Topping

19 - Cilantro or parsley, freshly chopped (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Set your oven to 425°F to preheat. Cover a big baking sheet using foil or parchment paper.
02 - Stir together all chicken seasonings in a small dish. Lay out chicken breasts on the baking sheet and pour olive oil over each one. Rub the oil over both sides. Take your spice mix, sprinkle it over the pieces, and rub it in thoroughly.
03 - Pop the tray into your preheated oven and let the chicken cook for around 15-18 minutes. Make sure the internal temp hits 165°F.
04 - While the chicken's in the oven, grab a small saucepan and melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk until smooth.
05 - Slowly pour milk into the pan, whisking the whole time, until smooth. Toss in your shredded cheese, stir consistently until creamy, then add cayenne and paprika. Blend it until everything's mixed.
06 - Layer your cooked chicken on your favorite grain, pour cheese sauce on top, and toss some fresh parsley over if you like.

# Notes:

01 - Freshly shred the cheese yourself—it melts better that way.
02 - Feel free to tweak the spice levels if desired.
03 - Pick any grain you prefer to serve underneath.