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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

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Bold spices and a rich cheese sauce make this Mexican chicken recipe an easy, comforting favorite. Ready in 30 minutes and perfect with rice or veggies!

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, American

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

12 tbsp olive oil

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 cup milk (or half-and-half for richer sauce)

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)

Salt, to taste

Instructions

Season the Chicken:
Rub both sides of chicken with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and sear for 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden. Set aside and keep warm.

Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan (or the same skillet wiped clean), melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and bring to a simmer.

Add Cheese:
Stir in cheddar cheese and garlic powder. Continue stirring until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt as needed.

Combine & Serve:
Pour cheese sauce over chicken or return chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

Add Heat: Mix in diced jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce for a spicier version.

Make It Tex-Mex: Add Rotel tomatoes or salsa to the cheese sauce for an extra punch.

Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or grilled veggies.

Toppings: Try chopped cilantro, avocado slices, or green onions.