Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
