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Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy plant-based cheese sauce infused with smoky spices and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or casual gathering, it delivers comforting, vibrant Mexican flavors in under 30 minutes. Versatile and family-friendly, it reheats well and can be adapted with vegetables and spice variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Spices

  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced into strips or bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Cheese Sauce

  • 1 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded or chopped
  • 2 tablespoons plant-based butter
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Finishing

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into even strips or bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking. Season lightly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika (natural), and ground cumin to build the bold Mexican flavor base.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat plant-based butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant to form the flavor foundation of the sauce.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Push the sautéed onions and garlic to the side of the skillet, then add the chicken pieces. Sear until golden brown on the outside and cooked through, sealing in juiciness and creating a nice texture contrast.
  4. Create the Cheese Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, and additional plant-based butter. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent and warm gently, stirring to thicken the sauce. Gradually add the plant-based cheese (plant-based), stirring continuously until melted into a silky, creamy sauce that coats the chicken.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully coated, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the dish to add brightness and fresh herbal notes before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure the sauce comes together smoothly without lumps.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to prevent the plant-based cheese from clumping.
  • Cook chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan and achieve better caramelization.
  • Use freshly ground spices for the most vibrant flavor.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for perfect balance of acidity and creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Mexican chicken, plant-based cheese sauce, quick dinner, creamy sauce, gluten free, family friendly

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