Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

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This flavorful and comforting dish features tender chicken smothered in a creamy, zesty cheese sauce with a hint of Mexican spices. It’s perfect served with rice, tortillas, or over a bed of sautéed vegetables.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

For the cheese sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer sauce)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season and cook the chicken:
    • In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Rub the chicken breasts with the seasoning mix, then drizzle with lime juice.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Remove from the skillet, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Make the cheese sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the flour is lightly golden.
    • Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
    • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, and continue whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
    • Add the chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  3. Combine the chicken and sauce:
    • Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
  4. Serve:
    • Serve the Mexican chicken with cheese sauce over rice, tortillas, or alongside sautéed vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a crisp salad.
  • Serve with warm tortillas or over Mexican rice for a filling meal.

This dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

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