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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
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This Easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe features tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with vibrant Mexican spices. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

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Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest before slicing or shredding.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add diced green chilies, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir for about 30 seconds to release their aroma. Gradually add the cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Cheese and Tomato Sauce: Mix in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses along with the tomato sauce. Stir until the cheeses fully melt into the sauce, creating a luscious, velvety texture.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, coating each piece generously with the cheese sauce. Simmer for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce hot, garnished as desired with fresh cilantro, green onions, or sour cream.

Notes

  • Use fresh cheese and shred it yourself for smoother melting and creamier sauce.
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy; resting helps retain the moisture.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by adding more chicken broth if too thick, or simmering uncovered if too thin.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten and balance the richness.
  • Use a non-stick pan to prevent the cheese sauce from sticking or burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican chicken, cheese sauce, creamy chicken, quick dinner, weeknight meal

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