Mexican Chicken With Cheese Sauce Recipe

There's nothing like the rich, creamy flavors of Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce to bring a festive touch to your dinner table. Juicy, seasoned chicken is smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, creating a dish that's as indulgent as it is comforting.

this Recipe

I first tried this recipe during a family taco night when I wanted to experiment with something a little different. It quickly became a household favorite, thanks to its bold flavors and irresistible creaminess. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Get ready to savor a recipe that combines comfort food with bold, exciting flavors. Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a deliciously easy dinner option you'll want to make again and again.

First, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you'll have a show-stopping dish on your table in under 45 minutes.

It's a crowd-pleaser too. The creamy cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the seasoned chicken, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, you can easily customize the spice level to suit your preferences.

The ingredients are budget-friendly and widely available. From tender chicken breasts to a basic cheese blend, everything you need is likely already in your kitchen or easily found at your local grocery store.

Lastly, it’s versatile! Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or alongside your favorite veggies for a complete meal that's as adaptable as it is delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish lies in its well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a critical role in creating the perfect bite.

Chicken breasts are the star of the show. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken for a quick-cooking protein that stays moist and tender when seared.

Cheese is the heart of the sauce. A combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack works wonderfully, delivering both sharpness and creaminess. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add depth and warmth to the chicken, giving it that signature Mexican-inspired flavor. Adjust the amounts based on your spice tolerance.

Heavy cream creates the base for the sauce, ensuring a rich and luscious texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Chicken broth ties everything together, thinning out the sauce just enough while enhancing the savory flavor.

If you have one, a cast-iron skillet is ideal for cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce. Its even heat distribution ensures perfect results every time.

How to Make This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Creating this dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a flavorful, cheesy masterpiece in no time.

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with a mix of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a little more oil if needed. Toss in some diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute to deglaze the pan. Then, add heavy cream, stirring to combine. Slowly whisk in the shredded cheese until it melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the cheese sauce over the top. Cover and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and infused with the sauce's flavors.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra pop of flavor.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem. This dish stores beautifully and can be enjoyed the next day.

For refrigeration, transfer the chicken and cheese sauce to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If freezing, store the chicken and sauce in separate freezer-safe containers to maintain the sauce's creamy texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Stir gently to prevent sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer, juicier option.
• Add a smoky kick with a pinch of chipotle powder in the spice mix.
• Stir in some diced poblano peppers or canned green chilies to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• For a low-carb version, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or steamed veggies instead of traditional rice or tortillas.
• Experiment with different cheese blends, like Pepper Jack for heat or Queso Fresco for authenticity.

Don't be afraid to get creative! This dish is a fantastic base for experimenting with bold new flavors.

Print