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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner You’ll Crave


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: cooked rice, tortillas, or taco shells for serving


Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté onion and bell pepper 5–6 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
  4. Stir in green chilies, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and simmer 1–2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  7. Return chicken to the pan. Toss gently to coat and warm through (1–2 minutes).
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and extra cheese.

Great with:
• Steamed rice or cilantro-lime rice
• Warm tortillas or taco bowls
• A dollop of sour cream or guacamole

💡 Make it heartier: Add black beans or corn.

PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 20 mins , Total Time : 30 mins , Servings : 4 , Calories : 380 per serving , Net Carbs: 12g , Fats: 20g , Protein: 36g