Health meal, low carbs meals, keto meal
INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

Spicy Grilled Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Sauce

Spice up your dinner routine with this mouthwatering Spicy Grilled Chicken topped with a creamy, cheesy cheddar sauce. This dish brings together bold flavors and creamy textures for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With a kick from chili powder and red pepper flakes, paired with the richness of cheddar cheese sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

Grilling the Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Season the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

  1. Prepare Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
  2. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until mixture thickens and comes to a simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Season: Stir in salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove saucepan from heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serving:

  1. Plate the Chicken: Place grilled chicken breasts on serving plates or a platter.
  2. Top with Cheese Sauce: Spoon creamy cheddar sauce generously over each chicken breast.
  3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional paprika or chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Cook’s Notes and Variations

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
  • Grilling Alternatives: If you prefer, you can bake the seasoned chicken breasts in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
  • Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese for the sauce, such as pepper jack or smoked gouda, for unique flavor variations.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

  • Chicken Preparation: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a higher fat content, perfect for keto diets.
  • Sauce Modification: Substitute flour with xanthan gum or a keto-friendly thickener to reduce carb count in the cheese sauce.
  • Side Dish: Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad instead of traditional starches for a low-carb meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until heated through and smooth.

What can I serve with Spicy Grilled Chicken and Cheese Sauce?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed cauliflower, or a crisp green salad. It’s also delicious with steamed rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Spicy Grilled Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Sauce is a delightful combination of bold flavors and creamy textures that will satisfy your cravings for a hearty and delicious meal. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or impress guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the richness of the cheddar cheese sauce paired with perfectly grilled chicken for a memorable dining experience!

This detailed blog post covers all aspects of preparing Spicy Grilled Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Sauce, ensuring your readers have a comprehensive guide to recreate this flavorful dish at home.