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A close-up shot of juicy, seasoned chicken pieces being cooked in a skillet before making the creamy chicken recipe.

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce (Easy One-Pan Recipe)

This Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce is a one-pan wonder! Juicy, seasoned chicken is smothered in a rich, velvety queso sauce for an easy weeknight dinner that's ready in under 45 minutes and packed with incredible flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 0.5 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small jalapeño finely diced (optional)
  • 12 oz evaporated milk 1 can
  • 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 4 oz diced green chiles 1 can, undrained
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Mixing Bowl

Instructions
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss until evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced jalapeño and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the evaporated milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, then gradually whisk in the shredded cheeses until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the can of diced green chiles.
  4. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the cheese sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Notes

Tip 1: For the smoothest sauce, shred your own cheese from a block.
Tip 2: Don't let the sauce boil after adding the cheese to prevent it from separating.
Tip 3: Serve over rice, in tacos, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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