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:
- 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.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- 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:
- 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.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until mixture thickens and comes to a simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season: Stir in salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
- Add Cheese: Remove saucepan from heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serving:
- Plate the Chicken: Place grilled chicken breasts on serving plates or a platter.
- Top with Cheese Sauce: Spoon creamy cheddar sauce generously over each chicken breast.
- 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.