Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender, spiced chicken breasts topped with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. This recipe balances bold Mexican spices with a silky, cheesy finish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

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 black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for sauce)
• 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken breasts evenly with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Let the chicken rest to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the sauce.
2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of oil. Sear the chicken breasts on each side until a golden crust forms and the chicken is cooked through but still juicy. Remove from heat and set aside to rest.
3. Step 3: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour slowly, whisking continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook until it turns light golden and fragrant.
4. Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue stirring as the sauce thickens. Add salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika, mixing well for a hint of spice.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat. Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Step 6: Plate the seared chicken breasts and generously pour the cheese sauce over each piece. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a pinch more crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for a richer cheese sauce.
• Serve with warm tortillas or over rice to make a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave, then heat the cheese sauce over low heat, stirring to restore its creamy texture before pouring it back over the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute the cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses that melt well to suit your taste preferences.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. The meat should be firm but still juicy.

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 90 reviews

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe features tender, spiced chicken breasts seared to perfection and topped with a creamy, spicy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a flavorful dinner that combines bold Mexican-inspired spices with a rich, velvety sauce for an irresistible meal.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken:

• 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 black pepper

Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 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. Prepare the chicken: Evenly coat 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 well-distributed, then let the chicken rest while you make the cheese sauce so the flavors meld.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of oil. When hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear each side until a golden crust forms and the chicken is cooked through but still juicy. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest, allowing the juices to redistribute.
3. Create the cheese sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Gradually whisk in the flour continuously until a smooth, light golden roux forms and a nutty aroma is released.
4. Incorporate the milk: Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. As the mixture heats, it will thicken. Add the salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika, stirring well to combine. The sauce should be creamy with a subtle spicy kick.
5. Add the cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add the shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese fully melts, producing a velvety smooth and rich cheese sauce.
6. Serve: Plate the seared chicken breasts and generously pour the cheese sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy this delicious combination of tender chicken and creamy, spicy cheese sauce.

Notes

• Hand-shredding the cheese provides better texture and prevents clumping in the sauce.
• Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
• Letting the chicken rest after seasoning helps the flavors penetrate.
• Use medium-high heat for searing to get a nice crust without overcooking.
• Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley make a great garnish and add brightness.

Keywords: Mexican chicken, cheese sauce, skillet chicken, spicy chicken recipe, cheddar cheese sauce, dinner recipe