Description
This creamy cheddar chicken dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Lime wedges (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp). Set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream. Cook until slightly thickened, stirring constantly.
- Stir in Dijon mustard. Remove from heat and whisk in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place chicken on a serving plate or back into skillet. Pour cheese sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with diced red bell pepper and parsley. Add lime wedges if desired.
- Serve immediately with sides like mashed potatoes, pasta, or vegetables.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg