Get ready for a flavor explosion with our Fiesta Chicken in Cheese Sauce recipe! This vibrant dish combines the zesty zest of Mexican-inspired flavors with the creamy richness of a perfectly-crafted cheese sauce. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a luscious blend of chilies, onions, and spices, then generously coated in a melted cheese sauce that's both comforting and exciting. It's the perfect dish for a fiesta, a family dinner, or a cozy night in – guaranteed to impress your taste buds and leave everyone wanting more.
This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can adjust the spice level to your preference and easily add your favorite vegetables. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this recipe is surprisingly simple to execute. Ready to transform your dinner table into a vibrant Mexican celebration? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step process to create this unforgettable Fiesta Chicken in Cheese Sauce.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle (or garlic press)
- Blender
- Pan
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Salt
- Garlic cloves: 2
- Oregano
- Black pepper
- Allspice: 1-2
- Olive oil
- Cream cheese: 100 grams
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: 1 cup
- Milk: 1/2 cup
- Melting cheese (e.g., Manchego, Parmesan): 1 cup
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1/2 small
- Ham
- Peeled and toasted almonds
- Chicken bouillon powder or salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Marinate
- Marinate chicken breasts with salt, garlic, oregano, black pepper, allspice, and olive oil for 30 minutes. (If you don't have a mortar and pestle, use a garlic press and ground spices.)
Step 2. Make the Cheese Sauce and Cook the Chicken
- Blend cream cheese, heavy cream (or half-and-half), grated melting cheese, salt (or chicken bouillon powder), and milk until smooth.
- Melt butter with a splash of olive oil in a pan. Add grated onion and pressed garlic; cook until golden.
- Add ham to the pan and cook until lightly browned.
- Pour in the blended cream sauce and stir well. Simmer until the cheese is melted.
- Cook chicken breasts in a separate pan over medium-high heat until lightly browned on both sides and cooked through.
Step 3. Combine and Finish Cooking
- Add the warm cheese sauce to the chicken breasts, letting them finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 4. Serve
- Garnish with toasted almonds.
- Serve with spaghetti, linguine, or other preferred sides.
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Tips
- Grating the onion enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- The cheese sauce can be prepared in advance.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-750
- Fat: 40-55g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat together before serving. The cheese sauce might thicken slightly, so you may need to add a little milk or cream to adjust the consistency.
2. What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
A blend of Mexican cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar works wonderfully. For a sharper flavor, add some pepper jack. You can also experiment with other melting cheeses like queso quesadilla.
This Fiesta Chicken in Cheese Sauce recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone wanting seconds. From its simple preparation to its vibrant taste, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion, big or small. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to experience a fiesta of flavor in every bite!