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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

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This creamy, bold Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a fast and flavorful skillet meal loaded with seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and just the right kick of spice. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect over rice, tucked into tortillas, or spooned onto nachos. A cheesy, comforting dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights but rich and satisfying enough for guests.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course, Skillet Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño or 1 small can green chilies (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup milk or heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Season chicken on both sides with taco seasoning.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and sear until golden and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add garlic and jalapeño or green chilies. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in cream cheese and milk. Whisk over medium-low heat until smooth and creamy.
  5. Gradually add shredded cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is silky.
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon cheese sauce over the top.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • Use pepper jack for a spicier cheese sauce.
  • Add black beans or corn to the sauce for more texture.
  • Rotisserie chicken works as a shortcut—just skip the searing and heat it in the sauce.
  • If sauce thickens upon reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
  • Great served over rice, in tacos, burritos, or with tortilla chips.

Nutrition

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