Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is one of those dishes I keep coming back to—flavorful, comforting, and easy to make. I season juicy grilled chicken with bold spices like chili powder and serve it with a creamy, cheesy cheddar sauce that brings the whole meal together. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when I want something satisfying with a kick of spice and a blanket of melty goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines the smoky heat of seasoned grilled chicken with the richness of cheddar cheese sauce. It’s the perfect balance of spicy and creamy. I can serve it over rice, stuff it into tortillas, or just pair it with veggies. It’s simple to prep, and the flavors never disappoint. Plus, the cheese sauce alone is so good I sometimes double it just to drizzle over everything.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the cheese sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (preferably whole milk)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. I season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil and rub the seasoning in evenly.
2. I preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until it reaches 165°F internally and gets a nice char.
3. While the chicken cooks, I melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. I whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
4. I slowly add the milk, whisking constantly, until smooth and slightly thickened.
5. I reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. I season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
6. I plate the grilled chicken and pour the warm cheese sauce over the top before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes swap cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend or pepper jack for extra spice.
• If I want a smoky twist, I grill the chicken over charcoal instead of a gas grill.
• I add sliced jalapeños or chipotle sauce into the cheese for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• For a lighter version, I use low-fat milk and reduce the butter slightly.
• I also like turning this into a rice bowl with black beans, corn, and avocado on the side.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chicken and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, I warm it in a skillet or microwave until hot. For the cheese sauce, I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk and stirring until smooth again.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I often use boneless skinless thighs when I want juicier meat—they work just as well with the spice blend and grill up beautifully.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. I make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. I just reheat it gently with a little milk to keep it smooth.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to moderate kick, depending on the chili powder and cayenne. I adjust the spice level by skipping the cayenne or using less chili powder if needed.

What sides go well with this?

I like to serve it with Mexican rice, roasted vegetables, or tortillas for a fajita-style meal. A side of guacamole or salsa is also a great touch.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, I bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked. It’s just as tasty and a great option for indoor cooking.

Conclusion

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is one of my favorite ways to spice up dinner. The combination of bold spices and creamy cheddar sauce hits every comfort food craving I’ve got. It’s fast, flexible, and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for a weeknight win or a weekend meal that feels a little extra.

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