When you think of comfort food that transports you to warmer climates, nothing quite compares to Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce. This dish is a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that can easily become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation. With succulent chicken breasts bathed in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. This dish combines spices that evoke the warmth of Mexico, offering a delightful dining experience that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Why We Love This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
One of the reasons why Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is so beloved is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a family event or an intimate dinner, this recipe caters to all occasions. The creamy cheese sauce not only adds richness but also helps to amplify the flavors of the spiced chicken. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or when you’re entertaining guests.
Moreover, the use of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika introduces an exciting kick that can be modified to your heat preference, ensuring everyone can enjoy it. The straightforward preparation means you won’t spend hours in the kitchen but will still impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering meal that looks and tastes gourmet.
Ingredients for Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
To make your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken and Seasoning:
- 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
- Cheese Sauce:
- 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 by hand
These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and make mealtime feel special.
How to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Directions
Creating your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce begins with preparing the chicken. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. It’s essential to give the chicken some time to absorb those flavors, so allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes.
Once your chicken is seasoned, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. This is where the magic happens. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). After achieving a beautiful golden color, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period is crucial as it helps to retain the juices within the chicken, keeping it moist and tender.
Now it’s time to whip up the star of the show: the cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it until it turns golden. This roux is the base for your creamy sauce, so make sure not to rush it.
Gradually add the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. As you stir, you’ll notice the sauce thickening; keep cooking it until you reach your desired consistency. Once thickened, incorporate the salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Finally, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Now that everything is ready, you can plate the chicken. Pour the velvety cheese sauce generously over each breast, ensuring every bite is drenched in that luscious creaminess. Your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Serving your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce can be a delightful experience on its own. Consider creating a vibrant platter to bring out the flavors. Place the cheese-covered chicken breasts on a large serving dish, and feel free to accompany them with a side of fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or crispy tortilla chips.
For an extra touch of freshness, you can garnish the dish with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice. Adding some sautéed bell peppers or roasted corn on the side can elevate the dish with additional flavors and colors, truly making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
If you want to add even more variety, a simple salad with avocado slices and lime can serve as a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese sauce. This way, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that hits all the right notes.
Expert Tips: Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
To get the best results when preparing your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, keep the following expert tips in mind.
First and foremost, when seasoning the chicken, you can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you’re particularly sensitive to heat. This dish can be personalized to fit your taste buds, so don’t hesitate to modify the spices according to your preferences.
Using fresh, quality ingredients also makes a significant difference in flavor. Opt for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged cheese for a smoother melting experience in your sauce. The texture will be creamier, and the flavor will be much more pronounced.
Furthermore, ensure that the chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This will help the chicken cook evenly, yielding better results. Lastly, letting the cheese sauce rest for a minute after adding the cheese can result in a creamier consistency as it cools slightly and thickens.
How to Store Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a breeze. Start by allowing the chicken and cheese sauce to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
When properly stored, your dish can last for up to three days without losing its delectable flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on a stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during refrigeration.
Make sure to keep the chicken and cheese sauce separate if you plan on freezing. While the chicken can freeze well, the cheese sauce may not retain its texture after thawing.
Variation of Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
While this recipe is already a winner, there are many ways to spice it up or alter it according to your preferences. For example, if you’re a fan of vegetables, you can add sautéed bell peppers or spinach to the cheese sauce for a boost of nutrients and flavor.
If you’re looking to add a little more flair, consider marinating the chicken overnight in a lime and garlic mix before seasoning it. This will impart an additional layer of flavor that complements the spice blend wonderfully.
For those who love heat, jalapeños can be diced and added to the cheese sauce for an extra kick. Alternatively, seafood enthusiasts might replace the chicken with shrimp for a zesty shrimp and cheese sauce creation that’s sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
What is the best side dish to serve with Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce?
When looking for the perfect complement to your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, consider options like cilantro lime rice, warm tortillas, or even a fresh salad. These sides balance the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a satisfying meal.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?
Absolutely! While extra sharp cheddar cheese is a favorite for its strong flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. Each type of cheese will change the overall flavor profile, making it a fun experiment.
How long does Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, this dish can retain its deliciousness for up to three days in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture of the cheese sauce.
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 pieces 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
Cheese Sauce
- 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 by hand
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil.
- Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking until it turns golden.
- Gradually add the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened.
- Incorporate the salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
Serving
- Plate the chicken and pour cheese sauce generously over each breast.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!