Spicy Mexican Chicken with Velvety Cheese Sauce – A Flavor Explosion!

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a delightful fusion of juicy, spiced chicken paired with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cheese sauce. The dry rub used for the chicken combines chili powder, cumin, and paprika, giving the chicken a bold, flavorful kick, while the cheese sauce is the perfect creamy balance. With the richness of sharp cheddar, this dish can be adjusted for heat based on personal preference. Perfect for a family meal or a crowd-pleaser, this dish is best paired with Mexican rice, though it’s also just as satisfying on its own. If you're looking for a comforting dinner with a punch of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  
  

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
  
  

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  
  

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
  
  

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  
  

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  
  

• 2 teaspoons paprika
  
  

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
  
  

• ½ teaspoon salt
  
  

• ¼ teaspoon pepper
  
  

• 2 tablespoons flour
  
  

• 2 tablespoons butter
  
  

• 1 cup milk
  
  

• ¼ teaspoon salt
  
  

• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  
  

• ¼ teaspoon paprika
  
  

• 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, do not use pre-shredded cheese)
  
  

Directions:

1. Mix together the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
   
   

2. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
   
   

3. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 6-8 minutes per side. Set the cooked chicken aside.
   
   

4. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   
   

5. Whisk in the flour and cook until it begins to bubble at the edges.
   
   

6. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to combine. Cook until the mixture is heated through (not boiling).
   
   

7. Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
   
   

8. Stir in paprika and cayenne pepper, then season with additional salt if needed.
   
   

9. Drizzle the cheese sauce over the grilled chicken and serve.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: 546
  
  

• Total Fat: 31g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 17g
  
  

• Trans Fat: 1g
  
  

• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 178mg
  
  

• Sodium: 1744mg
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 11g
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 1g
  
  

• Protein: 54g