Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Why Make This Recipe

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a delicious dish that brings bold flavors to your table. It combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy and zesty cheese sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The warm spices in the chicken and the rich cheese sauce create a perfect harmony that will please everyone.

How to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

1. Start by evenly coating the chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure the spices are distributed well for good flavor. Let the chicken sit for a bit while you prepare the cheese sauce.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once hot, place the chicken in the pan. Sear each side until golden brown, locking in the juices. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy. Set the chicken aside to rest.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly add the flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth paste. This will be your roux. Cook it until it turns a light golden color and has a nutty smell.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking to prevent lumps. As it heats, the mixture will thicken. Add the salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika, stirring well. You should have a creamy sauce with a bit of spice.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and rich sauce.
6. Plate the chicken and pour the cheese sauce generously over each piece. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Enjoy the combination of tender chicken and creamy cheese that warms your heart.

How to Serve Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Serve this dish with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also top it with avocado slices, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

How to Store Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Tips to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

• Use fresh spices for a brighter flavor.
• Shred the cheese yourself instead of buying pre-shredded for better melting.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.

Variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skillet while cooking the chicken for added flavor and nutrition. Also, try using different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, skin-on chicken can work, but it may become less tender when cooked. Boneless, skinless chicken is recommended for the best texture.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce a few days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from the spices, but you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper to your liking.

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Print Recipe

A delicious dish with tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, zesty cheese sauce, perfect for any occasion.

• Author: lila-monroe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-searing and Sauce Preparation
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: None specified

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Evenly coat the chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it sit while preparing the cheese sauce.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to rest.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add flour, whisking to form a roux until golden.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring to avoid lumps until the mixture thickens. Add salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Plate the chicken and pour cheese sauce over it. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Mexican, Chicken, Cheese Sauce, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal