If you need a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together fast, this Best Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Made Easy recipe is the answer. Juicy seasoned chicken is pan-seared until golden, then smothered in a creamy, mildly spiced cheese sauce that the whole family will love. It is simple enough for busy weeknights but satisfying enough to feel like a special dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Best Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Made Easy
This recipe is all about big flavor with minimal effort. The chicken cooks quickly in one skillet, and the cheese sauce comes together in just minutes using everyday ingredients. There is no baking, no complicated steps, and no hard-to-find spices.
It is also extremely flexible. You can serve it over rice, alongside tortillas, or with steamed vegetables. The spice level is gentle and family-friendly, making it a great option for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Best Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Made Easy
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced green onions
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breasts work best for this recipe, but chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness. If the breasts are thick, slicing them in half horizontally helps them cook evenly.
Cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend melts smoothly and provides great flavor. For a milder sauce, use Colby Jack. For more kick, pepper jack is a good option.
This recipe is naturally pork-free and alcohol-free, making it suitable for a wide range of families.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 3: Start the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and let it melt. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
Step 4: Add the Milk
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the cheese sauce over the top. Let everything warm together for 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish as desired and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
- Pound chicken breasts slightly for even cooking.
- Whisk constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Keep the heat low once cheese is added to prevent graininess.
- Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
- Tex-Mex Style: Stir in a spoonful of mild salsa or diced green chiles.
- Creamier Sauce: Replace half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh cilantro directly into the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican chicken with cheese sauce over white rice, Spanish-style rice, or cilantro lime rice. It also pairs well with warm tortillas, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. Leftover sauce is delicious drizzled over nachos or steamed broccoli.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is not recommended, as cheese sauces can separate when thawed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~430 |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | ~620 mg |
FAQ About Best Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Made Easy
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken ahead, but the cheese sauce is best made fresh. If reheating, do so gently and add milk to restore the texture.
What cheese melts best for this sauce?
Cheddar, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, and Mexican blends all melt well. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible for smoother results.
How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce the chili powder or omit it entirely. The dish will still be flavorful without heat.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes. Simply warm the chicken in the skillet and pour the freshly made cheese sauce over the top.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so. The seasoning is mild, and the creamy cheese sauce is a favorite with kids.
Best Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Made Easy
Equipment
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry. Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then season both sides of the chicken evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter in the same skillet, add flour, and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add shredded cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon cheese sauce over the top. Warm together for 1–2 minutes, garnish if desired, and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This Best Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce Made Easy recipe is proof that comfort food does not need to be complicated. With tender chicken, a smooth cheesy sauce, and endless serving options, it is a dependable dinner you can turn to again and again when time is short and everyone is hungry.
