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To whip up this Spicy Delight, it’s essential to understand the role each ingredient plays in creating this flavorful dish. Here’s a closer look at the key components:

Creamy Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Bake

Looking for a comforting and flavorful weeknight dinner? Try the Creamy Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Bake! This dish features succulent chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with spicy jalapeños and topped with gooey sharp cheddar cheese. Finished with crispy panko breadcrumbs and fresh cilantro, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating your family meals, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy the satisfying blend of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

1 cup fresh jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for a milder flavor)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup Panko bread crumbs

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly coat each chicken breast with the seasoning.

      Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniform. For a more exciting texture, consider leaving a few jalapeño pieces slightly larger.

        Assemble the Bake: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. Spread the creamy jalapeño cheddar mixture generously over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.

          Add a Crunchy Topping: Evenly sprinkle the Panko bread crumbs over the top of the creamy mixture. This will create a deliciously crispy finish as it bakes.

            Bake It Up: Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the top is attractively golden and bubbling.

              Garnish and Cool: Once finished baking, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor just before serving.

                Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Creamy Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Bake hot out of the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or can be served over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4