Print

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Print Recipe

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the zest of Mexican spices to your dinner table. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika, then seared to perfection. They’re smothered in a creamy cheese sauce made from cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, infused with diced green chilies for an extra kick.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • ½ teaspoon cumin

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup milk

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

  • ½ cup diced green chilies (canned or fresh)

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

  • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat.

  • In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

  • Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

  • Stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. Mix in diced green chilies.

  • Pour cheese sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet.

  • Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).

  • Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies to suit your heat preference.

  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Pepper Jack for added spice.

  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy Mexican Chicken, Chicken in Cheese Sauce, Creamy Mexican Chicken, Spicy Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Find it online: https://bakedwithhappiness.com/mexican-chicken-with-cheese-sauce/