If you are craving a dish that perfectly blends bold spices with creamy, cheesy goodness, look no further than this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe. It brings together tender grilled chicken breasts seasoned with a vibrant mix of traditional Mexican spices, elevated by a rich, velvety cheese sauce that will have you savoring every bite. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines comfort with exciting flavors, making you feel like you’re at a festive Mexican table right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, accessible, and bursting with flavor, the ingredients for this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe are easy to find and essential to achieving that perfect balance of taste and texture. Each item plays a vital role—from the aromatic spices that season our chicken to the sharp cheddar that transforms the sauce into creamy magic.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These provide the tender and juicy base for the dish, perfect for grilling and soaking up all those delicious spices.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: This offers a mild smoky warmth that is foundational in Mexican cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds deep savory notes that enhance the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to keep things exciting without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy, herbaceous touch that complements the spice blend perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Provides color and a smoky undertone that brings out the grilled chicken’s flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds a warm, nutty aroma synonymous with Mexican dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and enhancing natural taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Just a touch for mild bite and depth.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Key for thickening the luscious cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and a silky texture to the sauce ensuring it’s smooth.
- 1 cup milk: The base liquid that creates the creamy body of the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Used again to season the cheese sauce and enhance flavors.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle heat kick to the sauce for an extra layer of excitement.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Sprinkled into the sauce to bring continuity of flavor and a lovely red hue.
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star ingredient of the sauce, delivering sharp, creamy, melty cheesiness that ties the whole dish together.
How to Make Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by combining chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This spice blend is crucial—it gives our chicken that authentic Mexican flavor and a spicy kick. Rub this mixture generously on both sides of each chicken breast, making sure every inch is coated so the flavors seep deep as it cooks.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and prepare for some wonderful smokiness. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes per side until they’re cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Grilling adds that signature char and texture that makes this dish feel both fresh and deeply satisfying. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest—it locks in the moisture, ensuring every bite is juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the chicken rests, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly until the mixture bubbles and turns a gentle golden color—this is your roux, the base of your luscious sauce. Then, very slowly add the milk, whisking all the while to keep things silky smooth without any lumps.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Once the milk mixture has thickened just slightly and is hot but not boiling, it’s time to add in your shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese. Stir it in gradually, whisking continuously until the cheese melts completely and your sauce is thick, creamy, and so inviting. The boldness of the cheddar is where the magic happens, elevating this simple sauce into something truly crave-worthy.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Finally, stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt to your taste. These final seasoning touches bring the sauce to life with a harmonious blend of smoky, spicy, and salty notes that echo the flavors on your grilled chicken, binding everything into a mouthwatering experience.
Step 6: Serve
Pour your warm, dreamy cheese sauce generously over each grilled chicken breast. This final step brings all the elements together—you’ve got tender, spiced chicken dripping with creamy, slightly spicy cheese sauce. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments because this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe is absolute perfection.
How to Serve Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Add fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of lime to brighten the dish and add fresh texture. A handful of diced tomatoes or a drizzle of salsa can add a vibrant contrast, while some thinly sliced green onions bring a subtle crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with classic Mexican sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or grilled corn on the cob. If you want to keep it light, a crisp mixed green salad with a citrus dressing complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly. Tortillas on the side never disappoint either, offering the option to turn every bite into a little handheld fiesta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and lay it over a bed of warm tortillas, then drizzle the cheese sauce on top before rolling into soft tacos. Alternatively, serve the chicken whole with the sauce in a small dipping bowl on the side—this presentation invites everyone to customize their experience. Pair with vibrant bowls or colorful plates to visually echo the lively Mexican flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stored properly in an airtight container, leftover Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken and cheese sauce separate before reheating can help maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts and the cheese sauce individually in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the juicy tenderness of the chicken and the silky smoothness of the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or oven to keep it from drying out. Warm the cheese sauce slowly on the stove over low heat, whisking frequently to bring it back to a perfectly smooth state. Combining them right before serving ensures a fresh, luscious dish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! While extra sharp cheddar provides that perfect sharpness and melt, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, queso quesadilla, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best sauce consistency.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe has a gentle heat thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne in the sauce, but it is definitely adaptable. You can reduce or omit these for a milder version, or add extra chili powder or jalapeños if you love more spice.
Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, oven-baking is a great alternative. Bake the seasoned chicken breasts at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This method keeps your chicken juicy and tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses flour to thicken the cheese sauce, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the same amount. This swap won’t affect the taste significantly.
Can I prepare this dish for a large group?
Definitely! The simplicity of the ingredients and straightforward steps make this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe perfect for scaling up. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and consider cooking the chicken in batches to manage timing.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way this Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Recipe brings together smoky spices, tender grilled chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce that feels like a big warm hug on a plate. It’s a recipe that’s as comforting as it is exciting to the palate, easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve guests. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. So fire up that grill or preheat your oven and get ready for a deliciously cheesy Mexican feast!
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
This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe features succulent grilled chicken breasts seasoned with a robust blend of spices, topped with a creamy, spicy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a flavorful and comforting dinner in just 35 minutes, it combines classic Mexican-inspired flavors with a smooth cheese topping that enhances the grilled meat beautifully.
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 turn 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 the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is fully cooked.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the cheese sauce if you prefer milder or spicier flavors.
- Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices.
- You can substitute the extra sharp cheddar cheese with any sharp cheese of your preference.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or stovetop skillet can be used.
