Mexican Chicken With Cheese Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bold flavors of Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce to liven up your dinner table. Tender chicken seasoned with a mix of smoky spices, paired with a creamy, velvety cheese sauce, creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.

I first discovered this recipe while hosting a casual taco night for friends. What began as a creative way to use up leftover cheese turned into a show-stopping centerpiece that everyone couldn’t stop raving about. Ready to make your taste buds dance? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Mexican Chicken With Cheese Sauce

Get ready to embrace your new favorite weeknight dinner. This dish is packed with flavor, comes together quickly, and is guaranteed to impress.

First, it's quick and easy. With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast. Yet it tastes like you spent hours perfecting it.

Second, it’s a family-friendly winner. From the smoky, savory chicken to the creamy cheese sauce, this dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. You can even customize the spice level to suit everyone’s preferences.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Serve it with rice, tortillas, or even over a bed of greens for a lighter option. The leftovers (if you have any!) are just as delicious, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one adds its unique touch to the dish, creating a perfectly balanced meal.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here. They cook quickly and remain juicy when seasoned properly. If you prefer, chicken thighs are a great alternative for extra richness.
• Mexican Seasoning Blend: A mix of smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano gives the chicken its bold, savory flavor. If you’re short on time, a pre-made taco seasoning packet works just as well.
• Cheese: A blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a creamy, slightly tangy cheese sauce. For an authentic touch, try adding some crumbled queso fresco or cotija as a topping.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: These form the base of the sauce, striking the perfect balance between richness and pourable consistency. Whole milk works best, but you can substitute with half-and-half if needed.
• Jalapeños (optional): Freshly diced jalapeños add a touch of heat to the sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, swap these for green chilies or leave them out altogether.

No special equipment is needed – just a skillet, saucepan, and a whisk to make the magic happen.

How To Make This Mexican Chicken With Cheese Sauce

Creating this flavorful dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a foolproof dinner.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken generously with the Mexican seasoning blend. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and let it rest.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt a bit of butter over medium heat. Whisk in a tablespoon of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the shredded cheeses and keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you’re adding jalapeños, stir them in now.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken into strips and arrange them on a serving platter. Pour the warm cheese sauce generously over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.

Time and Tips

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes. The cheese sauce is best served warm, so try to time its preparation with the chicken. If the sauce thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Storage Options

This dish is as convenient as it is delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and cheese sauce separate, if possible, to maintain the best texture.
• Freezer: You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. However, the cheese sauce doesn’t freeze well due to its dairy content, so it’s best made fresh.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Heat the cheese sauce gently in a saucepan, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to get creative!

• Protein Swap: Replace the chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning to suit your choice of protein.
• Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or even chipotle powder. For a milder version, skip the spicy elements altogether.
• Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like Pepper Jack, Gouda, or even a smoky Provolone for unique flavors.
• Serving Options: Serve over Spanish rice, with a side of refried beans, or wrapped in tortillas for a burrito-style meal. You could also spoon the chicken and sauce over nachos for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor. This is a great way to sneak in extra vegetables for the kids.

Cooking is all about making it your own, so don’t be afraid to try new combinations and discover what you love most about this recipe.

Now that you’re armed with all the details, it’s time to bring the flavors of this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce to your kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy!

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