Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender, spiced chicken with a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe offers a burst of flavor that everyone will love. The creamy cheese sauce elevates the Mexican-spiced chicken to a new level, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. You can serve it with rice, tacos, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This dish can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion – The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile Serving Options – Pair it with rice, tortillas, or vegetables to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Great for family dinners or entertaining guests; everyone loves the cheesy goodness!
- Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples, you won’t have trouble finding what you need.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen. Using the right equipment will help you create that perfectly grilled chicken and velvety cheese sauce.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill pan
- Medium-sized sauce pot
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill Pan – Provides even heating for grilling chicken while retaining moisture.
- Medium-sized Sauce Pot – Ideal for making the cheese sauce without splatter.
- Whisk – Ensures smooth mixing of ingredients and prevents lumps in the sauce.
Ingredients
Mexican spiced chicken topped with a creamy cheese sauce makes this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce delicious any night of the week.
For the 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 (do not use the bags!)
For the 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 pepper
How to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Mix together your seasonings and season both sides of the chicken breasts well.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan over medium to high heat. Grill your chicken until it’s fully cooked (internal temp should be 165°F). Once done, set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium-sized sauce pot, melt your butter over medium heat. Whisk in your flour and cook until it begins to bubble around the edges.
Step 4: Add Milk Gradually
Slowly add in the milk while whisking to combine as you go. Continue whisking until heated through but not boiling.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
When your mix is hot enough, start whisking in your cheese in small amounts until fully melted.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once all cheese has melted, stir in paprika and cayenne pepper. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve hot over grilled chicken.
Enjoy this flavorful Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce at home tonight!
How to Serve Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Serving Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce can elevate your dinner experience. This creamy and flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
- Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices for a rich texture and taste.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the chicken for a zesty kick.
Pair with Flavorful Sides
- Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice complements the cheese sauce perfectly.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a hearty component to the meal.
- Corn Tortillas: Warm corn tortillas can be used to scoop up the chicken and cheese sauce.
Create a Complete Meal
- Side Salad: A simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled bell peppers and zucchini provide color and nutrients alongside your chicken.
How to Perfect Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
To achieve the best possible results with your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, consider these helpful tips.
- Seasoning: Ensure you generously season the chicken. This enhances flavor and prevents blandness.
- Quality Cheese: Use fresh, extra sharp cheddar cheese for optimal meltiness and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded varieties.
- Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on the sauce temperature; it should be hot but not boiling to ensure smooth melting of cheese.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after cooking for the best texture. The cheese sauce is creamiest when fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
When enjoying Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, selecting complementary side dishes can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some great options to consider.
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in tomato sauce that matches well with cheesy chicken.
- Black Beans: Rich and flavorful, they add protein and fiber to your meal.
- Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that provides freshness and richness alongside the dish.
- Charro Beans: Traditional beans cooked with spices, bacon, and vegetables for added flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brushed with butter is always a hit at the dinner table.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness to each bite.
- Cabbage Slaw: Crunchy slaw dressed in lime vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with creamy dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat both sides thoroughly with the spice mix.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-packaged cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always shred your cheese fresh for the best sauce texture.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without overdoing it.
- Not whisking enough: When combining milk and flour, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This ensures a creamy cheese sauce without any clumps.
- Serving immediately after cooking: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes allows flavors to meld together. This makes every bite more delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Portion into smaller containers for easy reheating.
Reheating Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce:
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varied flavor profiles.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by reducing or omitting cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and cheese sauce in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
What sides go well with Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce?
Serve it alongside rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is an incredibly versatile dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. With its creamy cheese topping and savory spices, it’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels. We encourage you to try this delicious recipe soon!
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a delectable dish that marries tender, spiced chicken with a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe guarantees a flavor-packed experience that delights everyone at the table. The rich cheese sauce takes the Mexican-spiced chicken to new heights, making it not only a treat for the taste buds but also visually appealing. Serve it with rice, tacos, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- 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
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with the spice mix.
- Grill over medium-high heat until cooked through (165°F), then set aside.
- In a sauce pot, melt butter and whisk in flour until bubbling.
- Gradually add milk while whisking; heat until warm (not boiling).
- Stir in cheese gradually until melted and smooth; season if needed.
- Pour cheese sauce over grilled chicken and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with cheese sauce (220g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
