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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Emily
Tender seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, mildly spicy Mexican cheese sauce, perfect for an easy weeknight chicken dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1.25 cups whole milk
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
  • lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season on both sides with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through, then transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet, and whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux; cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
  • Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, then add a pinch of salt and the cayenne pepper; simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
  • Remove the pan from heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the cheese sauce over the top, and warm briefly over low heat before serving with cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
  • Adjust cayenne to control heat level for your family.
  • Serve with rice, tortillas, or a simple salad to complete the meal.
Keyword Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce