If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together without stress, this Easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is exactly what your family dinner needs. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts are pan-cooked until tender, then topped with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that brings everything together in the most satisfying way. This dish is cozy, filling, and simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet special enough to serve when you want something a little extra.
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Why You’ll Love This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
This recipe checks all the boxes for a dependable family favorite. It uses simple pantry spices, everyday ingredients, and one skillet for easy cleanup. The chicken is bold and savory without being too spicy, making it friendly for kids and adults alike. The cheese sauce is smooth, creamy, and comforting, perfect for spooning over chicken, rice, or vegetables.
You will also love how versatile this dish is. Serve it with rice, tuck it into tortillas, or pair it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal that feels both hearty and balanced.
Ingredients for Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Chicken Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 quarter teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 quarter teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper, optional
- Salt, to taste
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breasts cook evenly when they are similar in thickness. If yours are thick, gently pound them to an even size before seasoning. For the cheese sauce, freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or skip the cayenne pepper entirely.
For a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat milk and cheese, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each piece.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute, until the mixture is smooth and lightly golden. This step helps thicken the sauce and removes the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Add the Milk
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3 to 4 minutes. Lower the heat slightly to prevent scorching.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, allowing it to melt completely before adding more. Add paprika, cayenne pepper if using, and salt to taste. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet or plate them individually. Spoon the warm cheese sauce generously over the chicken. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for Success
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Whisk constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Keep the heat low once the cheese is added to prevent the sauce from breaking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, especially salt.
- Double the cheese sauce if serving over rice or vegetables.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution.
Flavor Variations
- Add diced green chilies to the cheese sauce for a mild Southwestern twist.
- Use Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend for a slightly different flavor.
- Stir in a spoonful of salsa to the sauce for extra depth.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the finished dish.
- Add sautéed onions or bell peppers alongside the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican chicken with cheese sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, Mexican-style rice, or cilantro lime rice. It is also delicious with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a simple side salad. For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it in warm tortillas or over tortilla chips for an easy plated dinner.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover chicken and cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring the sauce occasionally to keep it smooth.
Freezing is not recommended for the cheese sauce, as it may separate when thawed. If you plan to freeze, freeze the cooked chicken without sauce for up to 2 months and prepare fresh sauce when ready to serve.
Easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce (Family Dinner)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts cooked to tender perfection and topped with a rich, creamy cheese sauce for an easy, comforting Mexican-inspired dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and rub seasoning evenly over both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until smooth.
- Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add paprika, cayenne pepper if using, and salt to taste.
- Spoon cheese sauce over chicken and serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce and keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 |
| Protein | 50 g |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Fat | 31 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
FAQ About Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The cheese sauce is best made fresh, but it can be prepared a few hours ahead and gently reheated.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe is mildly spiced and family-friendly. You can easily control the heat by adjusting or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and stay very juicy. Adjust cooking time as needed until fully cooked.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a mild Mexican blend are all good substitutes that melt smoothly.
Can I bake the chicken instead?
Yes, bake the seasoned chicken at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 to 25 minutes, then top with freshly made cheese sauce before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is the kind of recipe that quickly earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. It is simple, comforting, and full of flavor without being complicated. Whether you serve it with rice, vegetables, or tortillas, it is a reliable family dinner that everyone can agree on.