Zesty Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce

Welcome to a culinary fiesta with our tantalizing recipe for Mexican Chicken Cheese Sauce! This dish is a harmonious blend of succulent spiced chicken paired with a lusciously smooth cheese sauce that coats each morsel with flavor. Perfect for entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe strikes a perfect balance between bold Mexican spices and comforting cheesy goodness.

Crafted to please both the young and the young at heart, this Mexican chicken with cheese sauce has become a beloved favorite at my table. The velvety texture of the cheese sauce, achieved through slow whisking and the use of sharp cheddar, is a testament to the culinary magic that unfolds when simple ingredients are combined with care. As the aroma of smoky heat fills your kitchen, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating the cheesy, gooey goodness that awaits.

Whether you’re looking to impress your new neighbors or seeking a crowd-pleasing dish for game days, this American twist on Tex Mex flavors is sure to delight. From family gatherings to casual weeknight dinners, this recipe promises to bring joy and togetherness with every bite. So, grab your apron and get ready to create a memorable dining experience with our delectable Mexican Chicken Cheese Sauce.

Quick Benefits

• Bold and comforting dish that pleases both kids and adults
• Versatile: can be served with rice, tortilla chips, roasted sweet potatoes, or as a topping for nachos
• Crowd-pleaser: perfect for family gatherings or entertaining guests
• Make-ahead friendly: both chicken and cheese sauce can be stored and reheated for convenience

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce Recipe

• This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe is perfect for entertaining friends and family, offering a bold and comforting dish that is sure to impress.
• The combination of juicy spiced chicken and velvety cheese sauce creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Picky eaters will love this dish, as the creamy cheese sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken are irresistible to even the most discerning palates.
• The recipe provides flexibility with ingredient swaps, allowing you to customize the dish with your favorite cheeses, veggies, or meat options.
• Leftovers can be stored and reheated easily, making it a convenient option for meal prep or enjoying the dish multiple times throughout the week.
• This recipe offers a fusion of Tex Mex and American flavors, creating a unique and delicious twist on classic dishes that will be a hit at any gathering.
• The dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, whether served over rice, tortilla chips, sweet potatoes, or paired with complementary sides like slaw, salsa, or pickled onions.
• The recipe has received rave reviews from readers who have shared their success stories, from breaking the ice with neighbors to being a crowd favorite during game days.
• Freezing options for both the grilled chicken and cheese sauce provide convenience for planning ahead for parties or events, ensuring that you can enjoy this dish whenever the craving strikes.
• This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings people together, making it a perfect choice for creating memorable moments and enjoying delicious food with loved ones.

Ingredients for Zesty Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce

For the Chicken

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cheese Sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Pro Tips for Zesty Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce

Pro Tip: To ensure a velvety smooth cheese sauce, take your time whisking slowly while adding the cheese. Opt for a block of extra sharp cheddar for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tip: For a twist, consider using boneless thighs for a juicier, darker meat option, or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder finish. Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even diced jalapenos for extra flavor and color.

Pro Tip: Leftovers can be stored separately in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the cheese sauce gently over low heat with a splash of milk to maintain its creamy texture. Consider freezing grilled chicken slices for up to three months and reheat them in a skillet for the best texture.

How to Make Zesty Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Coat both sides of each chicken breast with the spice mixture evenly.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill seasoned chicken breasts for 6 to 8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbly. Slowly add whole milk while whisking constantly. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens slightly without boiling.

Step 4: Melt Cheese and Finish Sauce

Lower heat to low. Slowly whisk in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add cayenne pepper, paprika, and salt to taste, stirring until sauce is well blended and homogeneous.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Slice the grilled chicken breasts and arrange on serving plates. Pour warm cheese sauce generously over the chicken. Serve immediately.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Mexican Chicken Cheese Sauce, store any leftovers in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the cheese sauce over low heat, whisking with a splash of milk to restore its smooth texture. Cold chicken can be sliced for wraps or chopped into salads.

For longer storage, grilled chicken slices can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw and warm them in a skillet for the best texture. While the cheese sauce is best made fresh, it can also be frozen and reblended over gentle heat with added milk if you need to prepare it ahead for a party spread.

To enjoy the dish, serve the hot Mexican chicken and cheese sauce over fluffy white rice, tortilla chips, or roasted sweet potatoes. You can also pair it with tangy red cabbage slaw, avocado salsa, or pickled onions for added brightness. This American spin on Tex-Mex flavors makes for a familiar crowd-pleasing dish perfect for gatherings with family and friends.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some ingredient substitutions for this Mexican Chicken Cheese Sauce recipe, there are a few options you can consider. For the chicken, boneless thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier and darker meat option. Additionally, if you prefer a milder cheese flavor, you can swap out the extra sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack cheese or Colby cheese, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

To add more vegetables to the dish, you can incorporate sautéed bell peppers as a side dish or even mix in some spinach into the cheese sauce right before serving for an extra nutritional boost. For a different twist, you can also try adding charred corn or diced jalapenos to bring a summery burst of flavor to the dish. These substitutions and additions can help customize the recipe to your liking and add variety to the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this mouthwatering Mexican chicken with cheese sauce over fluffy white rice or roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal. For added texture and flavor, try topping it with tangy red cabbage slaw, quick avocado salsa, or pickled onions. You can also get creative by serving it with tortilla chips for dipping or wrapping the cold chicken in a warm tortilla for a delicious lunch option.

For a fun twist, consider using the extra sharp cheddar cheese sauce as a drizzle over nachos during game days or as a topping for grilled vegetables. To elevate the dish further, grill the chicken outdoors in the summer for a smoky char flavor or substitute roasted winter squash for a seasonal variation in the fall. Whether shared with new neighbors as a welcoming gesture or enjoyed with loved ones at a family gathering, this versatile recipe is sure to impress and bring smiles to the table.

FAQs for Zesty Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce

Can I prepare the cheese sauce in advance?

Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently over low heat, stirring to maintain smoothness.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Extra sharp cheddar provides robust flavor, but you may use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for variation.

What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

Enjoy with rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp salad to complement the bold flavors and creamy sauce.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, season and bake at 400°F until cooked through; the flavor will still be delicious and tender.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed making and savoring this delectable Mexican Chicken Cheese Sauce recipe. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering of loved ones, this dish never fails to bring joy and satisfaction to the table. The marriage of spicy chicken and creamy cheese sauce is a match made in culinary heaven, sure to leave everyone wanting more.

Remember, the versatility of this recipe allows for personal twists and additions, making it a customizable crowd-pleaser every time. So, go ahead and whip up this Mexican Chicken Cheese Sauce for your next meal and relish in the warm, comforting flavors that bring people together. Embrace the fusion of Tex Mex and American traditions with each cheesy, flavorful bite of this dish. Cheers to good food and great company!

Zesty Mexican Chicken with Cheesy Sauce

“Juicy spiced chicken paired with velvety cheese sauce, a bold Tex-Mex fusion that brings friends and family together with its creamy, smoky heat.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 min

Cook Time25 min

Total Time40 min

CuisineMexican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 plated portions)

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cheese Sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Coat both sides of each chicken breast with the spice mixture evenly.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill seasoned chicken breasts for 6 to 8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest before slicing.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbly. Slowly add whole milk while whisking constantly. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens slightly without boiling.
4. Melt Cheese and Finish Sauce: Lower heat to low. Slowly whisk in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add cayenne pepper, paprika, and salt to taste, stirring until sauce is well blended and homogeneous.
5. Assemble and Serve: Slice the grilled chicken breasts and arrange on serving plates. Pour warm cheese sauce generously over the chicken. Serve immediately.