Description
Mediterranean spiced chicken with creamy cheddar sauce delivers bold flavor profiles from multiple culinary traditions. Crisp herb-coated chicken nestles under rich cheese sauce, promising a delightful meal you’ll savor with each expertly balanced bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup (240 ml) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsps fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup (60 ml) tomatoes, diced
- 2–3 jalapeños, sliced
Instructions
- Spice Preparation: Blend chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into a dynamic seasoning mix. Massage the aromatic blend thoroughly across chicken breasts, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- Searing Technique: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature. Gently position seasoned chicken breasts, allowing them to caramelize and develop a rich golden-brown exterior.
- Cooking Precision: Roast chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, tracking internal temperature until it reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and allow chicken to rest on a clean surface, preserving its juiciness.
- Sauce Foundation: Utilize the same skillet to melt unsalted butter. Introduce all-purpose flour, whisking vigorously to construct a smooth, lump-free roux that will anchor the sauce’s texture.
- Liquid Integration: Gradually pour whole milk into the roux, maintaining constant stirring. Reduce heat and continue whisking until the mixture transforms into a luxurious, velvety sauce.
- Cheese Infusion: Fold shredded sharp cheddar cheese and chopped green chiles into the creamy base. Stir until cheese melts completely, creating a harmonious, silky sauce with balanced flavors.
- Final Assembly: Plate chicken and cascade the spiced cheddar sauce overtop. Embellish with fresh cilantro, thinly sliced jalapeños, and diced ripe tomatoes to elevate visual appeal and taste complexity.
Notes
- Spice Blend Mastery: Combine spices thoroughly to create a uniform, potent coating that deeply penetrates the chicken, maximizing flavor potential.
- Perfect Chicken Sear: Maintain medium heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve a golden-brown crust without steaming the meat.
- Roux Technique: Whisk flour and butter constantly to prevent burning and ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce base that serves as the foundation for creamy textures.
- Cheese Sauce Finesse: Reduce heat when adding cheese to prevent separation and maintain a silky, luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg