Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the savory spices of the chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce. The blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses gives the sauce a smooth, melty texture, while the optional green chiles and cayenne pepper provide just the right amount of mild heat.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (optional, for mild heat)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice) Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Season and Cook the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat (wipe out any excess grease if necessary). Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, diced green chiles (if using), cayenne pepper (if desired for extra spice), salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the flavors and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños, if desired. Serve the chicken with the cheese sauce hot, paired with rice, beans, tortillas, or a fresh side salad.
Notes
This dish is perfect for a comforting, easy weeknight meal and can be paired with a variety of sides like rice, beans, or fresh tortillas. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or less cayenne or chiles. Garnishing with cilantro or jalapeños adds a fresh, vibrant touch to this hearty dish.
Find it online: https://richspoon.com/mexican-chicken-with-cheese-sauce/