Introduction to Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
When it comes to weeknight dinners, Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce stands out as a top contender for young professionals juggling busy schedules. This dish offers not only mouthwatering flavors but also a hassle-free cooking experience that fits perfectly into your chaotic lifestyle. Whether you're coming home late from work or hosting a small gathering, this recipe allows you to serve something extraordinary without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this dish especially appealing is its versatility. You can enjoy the chicken sautéed and smothered in creamy cheese sauce by itself, or you can pair it with simple sides like rice or fresh vegetables. As highlighted by culinary experts at Serious Eats, quick and delicious meals can be made with minimal effort, which is precisely what this indulgent recipe offers.
Plus, with just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you won't need to navigate an overwhelming grocery list or complex cooking techniques. Imagine impressing your friends with a dish that's not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor! That’s what Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce brings to the table—deliciousness and convenience, making it the perfect weeknight choice for anyone pressed for time yet craving something delightful.
Ingredients for Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
When it comes to creating a festive and flavorful dish like Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce, having the right ingredients is key! Below, I've broken down what you'll need for both the chicken and the creamy cheese sauce that takes this recipe over the top.
Chicken Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of our dish; tender and juicy!
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a lovely kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Essential for depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: For that savory backbone.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: If you like it spicy!
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: For an earthy touch.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Brings color and mild sweetness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin: Perfect for authentic Mexican flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: A little zing!
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons flour: This thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For richness and flavor.
- 1 cup milk: Creamy base for the sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: To balance the flavors.
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For those who like it hot!
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and color.
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Make sure it's freshly shredded for the best melt!
With these simple yet vibrant ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing it with some homemade tortillas or a fresh salsa masterpiece! For more tips on ingredient selection, check out Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Preparing Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
When it comes to whipping up a delicious and satisfying meal, few dishes can compete with Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory spices and creamy cheese. Plus, it’s easy to prepare! Here’s a breakdown of the steps to get you cooking.
Seasoning the Chicken
First up is seasoning the chicken, which is critical for infusing flavor. Start by mixing the following spices:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Generously coat both sides of your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with this seasoning mix. Don’t skimp on this step; great flavor starts with quality seasoning!
Cooking the Chicken
Now it’s time for the fun part—cooking the chicken! Preheat a grill pan over medium to high heat. Add a splash of oil to prevent sticking, then grill the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it's fully cooked. This should take about 6-7 minutes on each side, but keep an eye on it. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest. Resting is crucial—it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
Making the Cheese Sauce
While the chicken rests, you can whip up the enticing cheese sauce. Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook until it starts bubbling at the edges. Slowly add in 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
As the mixture heats, check for warmth (a good test is to dip your finger in; it should be hot but not boiling). When it's just the right temperature, gradually whisk in 1 cup of extra sharp cheddar cheese (make sure to use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture). Finally, stir in ¼ teaspoon paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for that extra kick!
Combining Chicken and Cheese Sauce
With everything ready, it’s time to bring it all together. Place the grilled chicken on a serving platter and generously drizzle the cheese sauce over the top. Feel free to add some fresh chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños for a burst of color and flavor. This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is perfect served alone or with some delicious Mexican rice.
Enjoy this delightful dish, and share it with friends or family! It’s a fantastic way to brighten up any dinner table. Looking for complementary sides? Check out our recipe for Perfect Mexican Rice for an irresistible combo.
Variations on Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Spicy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
If you're a fan of heat, try adding finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your cheese sauce. The result? A delectable kick that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. You can also substitute the paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Veggie-Loaded Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
For a healthier twist, consider loading your Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce with colorful veggies. Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and corn can easily be mixed in with the cheese sauce or served on the side for extra nutrition. Not only does it make the dish more vibrant, but it also adds a crunch that balances the creaminess of the cheese.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings too—fresh cilantro, avocado, or a squeeze of lime can elevate this dish even further!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Making Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a delightful experience, and a few tips can elevate your dish even more.
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Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Coat the chicken generously to amplify flavor. Fresh herbs can also add a nice touch.
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Cheddar Choices: For the cheese sauce, always opt for block cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
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Keep an Eye on Temperature: When making the cheese sauce, medium heat is your friend. Rapid cooking can lead to a grainy texture.
Want a side? Check out this perfect Mexican rice recipe that pairs beautifully with your chicken! Enjoy your cooking!
Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
Equipment
- grill pan
- medium sized sauce pot
- whisk
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded, do not use the bags!
Instructions
Chicken
- Mix together your seasonings and season both sides of the chicken breasts well.
- Heat a grill pan over medium to high heat, and grill your chicken until done. (int temp 165 deg f)
- Set aside.
Cheese Sauce
- In a medium sized sauce pot, melt your butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in your flour and cook until it begins to just bubble around the edges.
- Add in the milk, slowly, whisking to combine as you go.
- Continue to whisk until your mix has heated through.
- You'll want to check the temp (I use my finger). You want it to be hot enough to melt the cheese, but not boiling.
- When the mix is hot, start whisking in your cheese in small amounts at a time until all of the cheese has been mixed in.
- Once the cheese is melted, stir in your paprika and cayenne pepper. Season with salt if needed. Serve hot over the chicken.
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