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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

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Tender Mexican-seasoned chicken topped with a rich and creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and jalapeños for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or family dinners.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts or chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 jalapeño, diced
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Rice or tortillas for serving
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  5. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  6. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth.
  7. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce.
  8. Add cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
  9. Mix in diced jalapeños, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  10. Slice the chicken and pour the warm cheese sauce over the top.
  11. Serve with rice or tortillas and garnish with cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and lime wedges.

Notes

  • Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier cheese sauce.
  • Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful.
  • Add hot sauce or extra jalapeños for more heat.
  • Store chicken and cheese sauce separately for best texture.
  • If the cheese sauce thickens, stir in a splash of milk while reheating.
  • This recipe also works well in tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/mexican-chicken-with-cheese-sauce-2/