Description
A flavorful Mexican-inspired chicken dish topped with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for a satisfying and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 /2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 /2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons paprika
1 1 /2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 /2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Cheese Sauce
2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded, do not use the bags!
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Mix together all the seasonings including chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly on both sides of each chicken breast.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the pan and grill until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness). Remove from pan and set aside to rest.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it begins to bubble. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and heat until hot but not boiling, about 3-5 minutes. Once hot, reduce heat to low and slowly add shredded cheese, whisking until smooth and melted. Stir in paprika and cayenne pepper, and season with additional salt if needed.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and spoon the cheese sauce generously over it. Serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, garnish with chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños.
- You can substitute the cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure cheese is shredded fresh; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting.
- This dish pairs well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 chicken breast with cheese sauce)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
