Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that brings the bold tastes of Mexican cuisine to your table, this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe is for you. Featuring juicy, seasoned chicken smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that works perfectly for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Serve it with rice, tortillas, or fresh veggies for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor: Loaded with spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, this dish captures the essence of Mexican cuisine.
2. Decadent Cheese Sauce: Creamy, melty cheese sauce elevates the dish to ultimate comfort food status.
3. Customizable: Easily adaptable with your choice of vegetables, cheese, or toppings.
4. Versatile: Pair it with various sides like rice, beans, or chips for a complete feast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken
   • In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
2. Cook the Chicken
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Create the Base
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
2. Add Liquid
   • Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
   • Cook for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Incorporate Cheese
   • Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Mexican cheese blend, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
   • Add cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Reintroduce the Chicken
   • Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the cheese sauce over the top.
   • Cover and simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
2. Plate and Garnish
   • Serve the chicken hot, smothered in cheese sauce.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or other toppings of your choice.
3. Add Sides
   • Pair with Mexican rice, beans, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Chicken Perfection

• Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken stays juicy and doesn’t dry out.

Cheese Sauce Tips

• Smooth Sauce: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and avoid pre-shredded varieties that contain anti-caking agents.
• Control Thickness: Adjust the sauce’s thickness by adding more milk or cheese as needed.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

• Swap the Chicken: Use boneless thighs, turkey breast, or even shrimp for a unique twist.

Cheese Options

• Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or queso fresco for varied flavors.

Vegetarian Version

• Meat-Free: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or grilled portobello mushrooms.

Spice Level

• Mild to Spicy: Adjust chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.

Pairing Suggestions

Drinks

• Classic Margaritas: Perfect for enhancing the Mexican theme.
• Agua Fresca: A refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Desserts

• Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Finish the meal on a sweet note.
• Flan: A creamy dessert that complements the savory main course.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer cooled chicken and sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
• Microwave individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Why This Recipe Works

The bold Mexican-inspired spices perfectly season the chicken, while the creamy cheese sauce adds indulgence and comfort. This dish is versatile enough for both casual dinners and entertaining, offering a balance of flavors that keep everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to customize and pair with sides, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Enjoy this rich, satisfying Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe as a delightful way to bring the taste of Mexico to your table!

Yield: 4

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe

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If you're craving a hearty, flavorful dish that brings the bold tastes of Mexican cuisine to your table, this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe is for you. Featuring juicy, seasoned chicken smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that works perfectly for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Serve it with rice, tortillas, or fresh veggies for a complete meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk (warm)
• 1½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
   In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
   Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until golden and bubbly.
   Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
   Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
   Stir in shredded cheese, green chiles, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
   
3. Assemble:
   Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the cheese sauce generously over each piece.
   Heat for 1–2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
   
4. Serve:
   Transfer the chicken to plates and drizzle with any remaining cheese sauce.
   Garnish with cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños as desired.

Notes

• Serving Suggestions: Pair with Mexican rice, black beans, or a side salad.
• Cheese Options: Substitute Mexican blend cheese with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso blanco for variation.