Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish made right at home! Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy, zesty cheese sauce that’s packed with flavor. Serve it with rice, tortillas, or vegetables for a meal that’s both comforting and irresistible.

The first time I made this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, my husband thought it tasted just like his favorite dish from our local Mexican restaurant. My daughter loved the creamy sauce, and now it’s one of our go-to weeknight dinners. It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit!

Why You’ll Love Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

•Rich and Creamy: The velvety cheese sauce is the perfect topping.

•Bold Mexican Flavors: Spiced chicken with a cheesy Tex-Mex twist.

•Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.

•Versatile: Serve over rice, pasta, or with warm tortillas.

Ingredients Notes For Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

For the Chicken:

•Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless for easy cooking.

•Olive Oil: For searing and adding richness.

•Seasonings: Chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for that bold Mexican flavor.

For the Cheese Sauce:

•Butter: Forms the base of the sauce.

•Flour: Thickens the sauce slightly.

•Milk: Adds creaminess; whole milk works best.

•Cheese: Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty, smooth sauce.

•Rotel Tomatoes (Optional): Adds a spicy, tangy kick.

Recipe Steps

1. Cook the Chicken:

1.Season chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

1.In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.

2.Slowly add milk, whisking continuously until smooth.

3.Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Add Rotel tomatoes if using.

3. Assemble and Serve:

1.Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked chicken.

2.Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with rice, tortillas, or roasted vegetables.

Storage Options

•Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

•Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken separately from the sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

•Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.

•Swap chicken for shrimp or steak for a different protein.

•Add sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, cook the chicken and make the cheese sauce separately, then reheat and assemble before serving.

What sides go well with this dish? Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, or steamed veggies.

How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth? Use freshly shredded cheese and whisk continuously while melting.

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and bold flavors. It’s an easy, comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

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Course: Main Course

Kitchen: Mexican-Inspired

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ For the Chicken:
• ▢ 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ▢ 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ▢ For the Cheese Sauce:
• ▢ 2 tablespoons butter
• ▢ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 cup whole milk
• ▢ 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for spice

Instructions

• Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
• Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
• Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
• Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Melt Butter: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
• Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
• Melt Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until smooth.
• Step 3: Assemble and Serve
• Pour Over Chicken: Drizzle the cheese sauce over the cooked chicken.
• Garnish and Serve: Serve with rice, black beans, or tortilla chips. Garnish with fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes if desired.