Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls head over heels for the bold flavors of Mexico, let me tell you: it tastes like this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce. I grew up helping my abuela in the kitchen, learning the magic of spices and fresh ingredients, and this recipe feels like pure comfort food with a fiesta twist. Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts get smothered in a creamy, extra sharp cheddar cheese sauce that’s rich, velvety, and slightly spiced. Whether you’re looking for easy chicken dinner recipes or low carb rezepte, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your table.

Quick Recipe Overview

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort meets spice: Tender chicken is seasoned with a flavorful blend of chili, cumin, and paprika, then topped with a smooth cheese sauce for the perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
• Quick and easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this is one of those chicken dinner recipes you can rely on during busy weeknights.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it over plain rice, Mexican rice, or keep it low carb by pairing it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad.
• Crowd-pleaser: From family dinners to casual entertaining, everyone loves the combination of juicy chicken and melty cheese sauce.
• Homemade cheese sauce: Skip the bagged cheese, grate it fresh, and enjoy the difference in flavor and texture.

SAVE NOW

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mexican spiced chicken topped with a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for an easy chicken dinner recipe full of flavor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Mix together your seasonings and season both sides of the chicken breasts well.

2. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat, and grill your chicken until done (internal temperature 165°F). Set aside.

3. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

4. Whisk in flour and cook until it begins to bubble around the edges.

5. Slowly whisk in milk, combining as you go until heated through (but not boiling).

6. Add cheese gradually, whisking until smooth and melted.

7. Stir in paprika, cayenne, and salt. Serve hot over chicken.

Notes

Best served with Mexican rice or plain rice.

The cheese sauce also makes a delicious dip for chips!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Grilling + Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
• Calories: 546
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 1744mg
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 54g
• Cholesterol: 178mg

Ingredients

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

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 (not pre-shredded)

Ingredient Tips Table

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub generously on both sides of the chicken breasts.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from pan and keep warm.
3. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly bubbly.
4. Add the milk: Slowly whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Heat until hot but not boiling.
5. Melt the cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, whisking until melted and creamy.
6. Season the sauce: Stir in paprika, cayenne, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Assemble the dish: Place cooked chicken on plates and spoon the hot cheese sauce generously over the top. Serve immediately.

Helpful Tips

• Pound chicken to an even thickness so it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
• Use a cast iron grill pan for beautiful char marks and added flavor.
• Keep whisking the cheese sauce constantly to avoid lumps.
• Don’t let the sauce boil, as this can make the cheese grainy.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Fresh cheese only: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, so grate your own.
• Low and slow for sauce: Cheese melts best over low heat. Patience pays off here.
• Rest the chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before topping with sauce to lock in juices.
• Double the sauce: This cheese sauce is so good, you’ll want extra for dipping chips or drizzling over veggies.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy kick: Add jalapeños or chipotle powder to the cheese sauce for a smoky heat.
• Tex-Mex style: Top with diced tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro for fresh flavor.
• Low carb version: Skip rice and serve with sautéed zucchini, cauliflower rice, or roasted broccoli.
• Cheese swap: Try pepper jack, Monterey jack, or a blend for a different twist on flavor.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

You can season and cook the chicken ahead of time, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cheese sauce is best fresh, but you can make it 1 day in advance and reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk. Chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months, then thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

You may also like my Easy Vegetable Stir Fry 

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines served over Mexican rice or simple white rice. For a lighter option, pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this dish with a crisp Mexican lager, a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing agua fresca. For sides, consider refried beans, corn on the cob, or a fresh tomato salsa.

SAVE NOW

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave. Warm the cheese sauce separately on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time since they may take slightly longer.
2. What cheese works best for the sauce? Extra sharp cheddar gives the richest flavor, but you can also use Monterey jack or pepper jack for variety.
3. Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, swap the flour in the roux for cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.
4. How spicy is this dish? The spice level is mild to medium. Adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes for more or less heat.
5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, but reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
6. What sides go best with this recipe? Mexican rice, refried beans, grilled corn, or a crisp salad are all excellent pairings.
7. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It’s not recommended, as it won’t melt as smoothly, but it will work in a pinch.

Nutrition Information

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Conclusion

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is the kind of meal that feels both comforting and exciting. Perfectly spiced chicken and creamy, homemade cheese sauce come together in a dish that’s quick enough for weeknights yet special enough for guests. Try it once, and it may just become your new go-to chicken dinner recipe!