Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe – Flavorful and Easy to Make
Savor tender, spice-rubbed chicken paired with a velvety cheese sauce. This Mexican-inspired dish balances smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. Perfect for quick weeknight meals, it’s customizable and family favorites from start to finish.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Quick Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
½ tsp dried oregano
2 tsp paprika
1½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp butter
1 cup milk
¼ tsp salt (plus extra for seasoning)
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp paprika
1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
Combine all chicken seasoning ingredients in a bowl. Rub mixture over chicken breasts.
Let chicken sit while preparing the sauce.
Heat 1 tsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest 5 minutes.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 2–3 minutes to create a golden roux.
Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with cayenne pepper and paprika.
Remove from heat; stir in shredded cheddar until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt.
Notes
Serve with steamed rice, tortillas, or roasted vegetables.
Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu
For plant-based version: Use vegan cheese and substitute butter with olive oil
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 445
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg