If you are craving a flavorful, comforting dish that’s packed with bold spices and melty goodness, look no further than this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of tender, perfectly grilled chicken breasts coated with a vibrant blend of traditional Mexican spices, all smothered in a luscious, creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce. This dish brings the fiesta right to your dinner table with every bite, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare without sacrificing any of that incredible rich flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the flavors just right depends on a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that signature taste, texture, and vivid color that makes this dish irresistible.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These provide a tender, juicy base that soaks up the spices beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds smoky warmth that sets the tone for the dish’s Mexican vibe.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers subtle, aromatic depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rich and savory, balancing the spice mix perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Gives a gentle kick of heat that livens every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a classic herbaceous note common in Mexican cuisine.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: For color and a mild, smoky flavor enhancement.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds earthy warmth and depth to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring all flavors forward.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for that creamy texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a silky base for the sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Smooths out the sauce while keeping it light and creamy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt & 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Enhances and sharpens the sauce’s profile subtly.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Ties the sauce flavor back to the chicken spice blend.
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star of the sauce, delivering that gooey, bold cheese punch.
How to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this aromatic spice mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts to ensure every bite bursts with flavor. This blend is what gives the chicken its lively Mexican-inspired profile.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 6 to 8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Grilling not only cooks the chicken but also gives it those irresistible char marks that add a smoky depth. Once done, let the chicken rest briefly to keep it juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the chicken rests, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture bubbles slightly and turns a light golden color. This roux is the key to building a creamy, thick cheese sauce that lovingly coats the chicken.
Step 4: Add Milk and Thicken
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Heat the sauce until it thickens slightly but doesn’t boil. This slow addition and constant whisking result in a smooth base ready to take on the cheese.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Slowly add shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce, whisking until it melts completely, creating a velvety consistency. The sharpness of the cheddar cuts through the richness, balancing the sauce beautifully.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
Add paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. These final touches bring warmth and depth, mirroring the flavors present in the chicken seasoning while adding a gentle smoky heat that complements the cheese’s richness.
Step 7: Serve
Pour the warm cheese sauce generously over the grilled chicken breasts and serve immediately while it’s perfectly melty and delicious.
How to Serve Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced green onions brighten up the dish visually and add a fresh, herbal contrast that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce. A squeeze of lime juice can also add a vibrant tang that cuts through the richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
For a complete Mexican-themed meal, serve this dish alongside fluffy cilantro-lime rice, smoky black beans, or a crisp corn salad. These sides add layers of texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience and balancing the hearty cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken sliced over a bed of warm tortillas, turning this into a lively taco dinner with all your favorite toppings. Alternatively, place it over roasted vegetables or even stuffed into baked potatoes for a fun twist that makes the dish feel fresh and special every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making the next meal just as delightful. Just be sure to cool the chicken and sauce before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe freezes well. Separate the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in the oven or on the stovetop to keep it tender. Warm the cheese sauce slowly over low heat while stirring often to prevent it from separating. Then pour the sauce back over the chicken just before serving for that fresh-from-the-kitchen taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese for the sauce?
Absolutely! While extra sharp cheddar is traditional here for its boldness, Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend can work wonderfully to create a milder, creamier sauce. Experiment to find your favorite.
Is this recipe spicy?
It carries a pleasant, moderate heat thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne in the sauce, but it’s easy to adjust—reduce or omit these spices if you prefer a milder flavor without losing any of the deliciousness.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked is a great alternative, especially when grilling isn’t an option. Just be sure to use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The chicken and cheese sauce keep well separately and come together quickly when reheated, making this a fantastic option for flavorful weekday lunches or dinners.
What can I serve instead of rice or beans?
Consider steamed vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter, low-carb accompaniment that complements the rich, cheesy chicken beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and excitement all at once. This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe delivers that in spades. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. I can’t recommend it enough — give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A flavorful Mexican Chicken recipe featuring grilled chicken breasts seasoned with a robust blend of spices and topped with a creamy, spicy sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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
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, combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts to coat thoroughly.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the seasoned chicken breasts until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 6–8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, remove from the grill and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture starts to bubble slightly and turns a light golden color, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to heat the mixture until it is hot but not boiling and has thickened slightly.
- Melt the Cheese: Slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the saucepan, whisking continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Serve: Pour the warm cheese sauce over the grilled chicken breasts and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid undercooking.
- For a spicier sauce, increase the cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices and improve tenderness.
- You can substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with a Mexican blend cheese for a different flavor profile.
- If a grill is unavailable, the chicken breasts can be cooked under a broiler or on a stovetop grill pan.
