Name: Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
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 (not pre-shredded from bag)

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Introduction

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts are topped with a creamy, spicy cheddar sauce that adds a delicious kick. It’s simple to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.

A black plate holds the dish placed on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth in the back. The bottom layer is a bed of light golden cooked rice, scattered with small green herb pieces. On top of the rice lies one large piece of grilled chicken breast, sliced into thick strips showing a juicy white inside and a dark crispy brown outside. The chicken is coated with a pale yellow creamy sauce that has a smooth texture, drizzled evenly across the strips. Small green herb bits are sprinkled over the sauce for garnish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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 (do not use pre-shredded bags)
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

Instructions

Step 1: Combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with this spice mixture.
Step 2: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the seasoned chicken breasts until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to bubble around the edges.
Step 4: Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously to combine. Continue whisking until the sauce is heated through but not boiling.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese in small amounts until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Stir in paprika and cayenne pepper. Taste and add salt if needed. Serve the hot cheese sauce over the grilled chicken breasts.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce that melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Add a squeeze of lime juice to the cheese sauce for a tangy twist.
Serve with rice or warm tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid curdling the sauce. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much when reheated.

How to Serve

The image shows two pieces of cooked chicken breast in a white pan filled with creamy light beige sauce. The chicken is golden brown with a slightly crispy texture and is covered partly by the smooth sauce. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top of both the chicken and the sauce, adding a fresh color contrast. The sauce looks thick and creamy, with a soft and rich texture swirling around the chicken. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, but keep in mind the flavor will be milder compared to sharp cheddar.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be firm and juices should run clear.