Easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Introduction:
Easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that features juicy chicken smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of Mexican spices. It’s a simple recipe that packs a punch of flavor and is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cook time make this a great choice for busy nights.
• Cheesy and Flavorful: The cheese sauce adds a rich, savory element to the tender chicken.
• Versatile: Perfect on its own or served over rice, with tortillas, or alongside vegetables.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

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

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional):

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, stirring constantly.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
   • Season the sauce with ground cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   • Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces.
   • Return the chicken to the skillet with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired. It pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a side of vegetables.

Tips for Success:

• Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
• Cheese: Use high-quality cheese for the best sauce consistency and flavor.

Recipe Variations:

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with cooked and seasoned vegetables or beans for a meat-free version.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of Spanish rice, black beans, or a simple green salad.
• Use as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment:

• Skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the cheese sauce.

FAQ:

• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for prepping the chicken and ingredients.

Cook Time:

• 20 minutes for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.

Total Time:

• 30 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

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Closing Notes:
Easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy it with your favorite sides or use it as a versatile filling for various dishes!