If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and creamy comfort, the Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are perfectly seasoned with a lively blend of spices, then smothered in a luscious, velvety cheddar cheese sauce that brings everything together beautifully. This dish is not only packed with personality but also incredibly satisfying, making it a standout for weeknight dinners or even special occasions when you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s building layers of smoky heat, adding richness, or balancing textures. The combination is simple yet essential, resulting in a harmonious and colorful plate.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein base that stays tender and juicy when grilled.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds smoky warmth that’s synonymous with Mexican cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle depth and savory aroma.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances natural sweetness and flavor complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a gentle kick that wakes up the palate.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings herbal brightness and authenticity.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Provides rich color and a mild earthiness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: Offers a nutty, warm undertone integral to Mexican dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the spice and cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds subtle sharpness for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons flour: The thickening agent for the cheese sauce, giving it perfect creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts into a flavorful base for the sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Creates a smooth and rich texture without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for sauce): Adjusts the seasoning in the cheese sauce.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle heat in the sauce that complements the chicken spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for sauce): Echoes the smoky notes from the chicken spice rub.
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star of the sauce, melting into a creamy, tangy topping.
How to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by mixing chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this vibrant spice blend evenly onto each chicken breast, coating both sides thoroughly. This step is where the magic begins, infusing the chicken with layers of Mexican-inspired flavors that will shine through after grilling.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to get that perfect sear. Cook the seasoned chicken breasts for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The grilling seals in moisture while adding those beautiful char marks that enhance both taste and appearance. Once grilled, let the chicken rest momentarily to keep it juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until it’s bubbly and golden. Whisk in the flour and keep stirring until it thickens slightly and takes on a gentle golden hue—this is your roux, the foundation for a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Add Milk
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Warm the mixture until it thickens and becomes creamy, but be careful not to let it boil. This gradual addition creates a silky base perfect for melting cheese.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Season
Gradually whisk in the shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Then stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt to balance all the flavors. The cheese sauce should be glossy and flavorful, complementing the smoky grilled chicken beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
Pour the warm cheese sauce generously over the grilled chicken breasts. This final touch turns a simple grilled chicken into a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful masterpiece that will make everyone ask for seconds.
How to Serve Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish to the next level. Consider bright chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of diced jalapeños for extra zing. A squeeze of fresh lime adds a lively contrast to the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Mexican sides like cilantro-lime rice or refried beans. For a lighter balance, serve it alongside a crisp Mexican street corn salad or a fresh tomato and avocado salsa to add vibrant textures and colors.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can be fun—serve the chicken on a large platter with small bowls of cheese sauce on the side for dipping, or slice the chicken into strips and drizzle the sauce artistically for a more casual sharing vibe. Using colorful plates helps showcase the rich hues of the spices and sauce, making your meal even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the chicken and sauce together to retain moisture and flavor but gently reheat to avoid drying out the chicken.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to separate the chicken and sauce. Freeze the chicken wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn, and store the cheese sauce in a separate container. Both can be frozen for up to two months, making meal prep super convenient.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in the oven or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to keep it juicy. Warm the cheese sauce on low in a saucepan or microwave, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture. Combining them just before serving keeps the dish fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier, especially when grilled. Adjust grilling time as thighs might need a bit longer to reach the proper temperature.
What type of cheese works best for the sauce?
Extra sharp cheddar is ideal for a tangy, bold cheese sauce, but you can also experiment with a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar for a creamier texture with a mild bite.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese that melts well to keep that creamy sauce experience.
How spicy is this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe?
The recipe offers a gentle heat from the crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne in the sauce. You can always adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing these ingredients according to your taste.
Can I prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese sauce up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before serving, whisking occasionally to restore its smooth consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again because it perfectly balances bold seasoning with creamy indulgence. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, it’s easy to make and downright delicious. Give it a try—you’re going to love how simple ingredients turn into such a flavorful feast!
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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe features tender, grilled chicken breasts coated in a bold blend of Mexican spices, topped with a rich, creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish combines smoky, spicy, and cheesy elements for a crowd-pleasing meal.
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
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest to retain juices.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour continuously and cook until the mixture bubbles and turns light golden, about 1 to 2 minutes, to form a roux.
- Add Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Heat the mixture until it becomes hot and thickens slightly, but do not let it boil.
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the thickened milk mixture, whisking continuously until smooth and fully melted.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste, mixing thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Serve: Pour the warm cheese sauce generously over the grilled chicken breasts immediately and enjoy your flavorful meal.
Notes
- Make sure to rest the grilled chicken for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
- You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level in the cheese sauce.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or stovetop skillet can be used to cook the chicken.
- Leftover cheese sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
