Go Back

Chicken Breasts with Jalapeño Cheese Sauce

A delicious and comforting dish that blends juicy chicken and creamy cheese sauce with a zesty kick from jalapeños, perfect for family dinners and weeknight meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 teaspoons olive oil (divided) Used for searing the chicken.
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5-6 oz.) These cuts absorb the sauce well.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances the natural flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth to the dish.
  • 3/4 teaspoon chili powder Gives a smoky flavor.
  • 3/4 teaspoon cumin Pairs well with the chili powder.
For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup onion (finely diced) Sweetens as it cooks.
  • 3 medium jalapeños (finely diced) Add zing to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Flavor booster.
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth Adds moisture to the sauce.
  • 4 oz. cream cheese (1/3 less fat) Lends creaminess to the sauce.
  • 1 heaping cup shredded cheddar cheese Main cheese providing flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
  2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and cover with aluminum foil.
Cooking the Sauce
  1. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil to the pan. Add the finely diced onion and jalapeños. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and cream cheese, stirring until melted.
  3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the mixture starts to simmer.
Finishing Touches
  1. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and ensure they are coated with the cheese sauce.
  2. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 7-9 minutes until chicken is cooked through, spooning sauce over the chicken halfway through.
  3. Serve the chicken breasts topped with extra cheese sauce.

Notes

Consider using thighs for a juicier option, and feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor.