Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170g each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (5 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin (2.5 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (2.5 ml)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (1.25 ml)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1.25 ml)
  • 1 ½ cups prepared salsa (mild, medium, or hot - your choice!) (360 ml)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a blend) (100 g)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish.
  5. Spread salsa evenly over each chicken breast.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Check with a meat thermometer at the thickest part of the chicken breast.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking, or until melted and bubbly.
  8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired.