Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a dish that promises a delightful experience for your taste buds. With its beautifully seasoned chicken breasts bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce, it brings the best of restaurant-style dining right to your kitchen. The combination of spices infuses the chicken with a robust flavor, while the cheese sauce adds a decadent touch that elevates the entire meal. The smooth texture and savory aroma are enough to make anyone’s mouth water, and once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in our household.
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I first stumbled upon this recipe during a casual dinner party, where it quickly won over the crowd, leaving everyone asking for seconds. The blend of spices and the richness of the cheese make it a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or even a relaxed weekend gathering. What’s even better is that this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is both easy to prepare and budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: From start to finish, you can have this delicious dinner ready in about 50 minutes, perfect for hectic weekdays.
- Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with zesty spices and creamy cheese that’ll have you coming back for more!
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The bright colors and golden-brown chicken topped with a rich sauce make for a stunning presentation.
- Flexible Serving: Great for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week; it suits any mealtime.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by substituting regular flour for gluten-free options.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Use fresh chicken for the juiciest result; you can substitute with thighs if you prefer dark meat.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: This adds a warm, spicy undertone; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a punch of savory flavor — fresh minced garlic can also work but remember it changes the flavor slightly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile; shallots or fresh onion can be used as alternatives.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: This provides a delightful heat; leave it out for a milder dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Fresh oregano can elevate the flavor further if you have it on hand.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: This adds a lovely color and sweetness; smoked paprika can provide an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: Essential for that authentic Mexican flavor; coriander can be a substitute for a different taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Basic seasonings that bring all ingredients together; adjust to taste.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Used in making the roux for thickening the cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Combines with flour to create a rich base for your cheese sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess; any milk substitute can be used if needed.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Additional flavor boosters for your sauce.
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded by hand: Freshly shredded cheese melts better; feel free to mix in other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.
How to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Season the Chicken: Start by evenly coating the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder, along with 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cumin, and sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. This combination will create a beautifully balanced flavor throughout the chicken. Let the chicken rest briefly while you prep your cheese sauce, allowing the spices to meld beautifully.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes, developing a golden crust that locks in the juices. You want the chicken to be cooked through yet still juicy, so ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Prepare the Roux: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Slowly sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour while whisking continuously to form a smooth paste. This roux is pivotal for your sauce’s texture. Cook it until it turns a light golden color and starts to release a nutty aroma, about 2-3 minutes.
Whisk in the Milk: Gradually add 1 cup of milk to the roux, whisking vigorously to avoid any lumps. As the mixture heats, it will start to thicken, providing that creamy consistency we crave. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, ensuring they are evenly mixed. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce begins to bubble gently around the edges.
Melt the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and slowly incorporate 1 cup of freshly shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted. The result should be a velvety, rich sauce that clings beautifully to your chicken.
Serve: Plate the seared chicken and generously pour the creamy cheese sauce over each piece. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce makes for a stunning dish that’s equally pleasing to the palate.
Storing & Reheating
To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but ideally, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to save it for a longer period, the dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, just until warmed through. Please note that the texture of the cheese sauce may slightly change upon reheating, so consider adding a splash of milk to revive its creaminess.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Allow your cheese to come to room temperature before adding it to the sauce for optimal melting.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices; add a bit of lime juice or zest for a zesty kick!
- Prepare the chicken and cheese sauce ahead of time, and reheat just before serving for an easy, stress-free dinner.
Crafting this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce allows you to experience heartwarming flavors that comfort the soul. The delightful combination of the juicy, spiced chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce is one that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. I encourage you to adjust the spice levels to your liking, try different toppings, or serve it alongside your favorite sides. Let this recipe be a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen, and most importantly, enjoy every flavorful bite!
Recipe FAQs
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can opt for skinless chicken breasts or substitute part of the cheese with a low-fat version to reduce calories. Additionally, adding a side of sautéed veggies can boost the nutritional value.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the chicken and cheese sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat before serving to maintain flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even tortillas for a complete meal. You can also add a fresh side salad for some crunch.
How do I make the cheese sauce smoother?
In case the sauce becomes lumpy, you can whisk it vigorously or blend it with an immersion blender for a smooth texture. Furthermore, using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded can help enhance creaminess.
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📖 Recipe Card
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy chicken with a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting meal, this recipe is simple to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks looking for delicious, homemade flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, seasoned
- 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
- Coat the chicken breasts evenly with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken rest to meld flavors.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown, ensuring they remain juicy. Set aside to rest.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, and whisk in flour until a smooth paste forms. Cook until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in milk, avoiding lumps, and let thicken. Add salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika, stirring well to combine.
- Remove from heat, and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Plate the chicken, pouring the cheese sauce generously over each piece. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, let the chicken marinate with the spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist on the sauce.
Serve with a side of rice or veggies for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
