Description
Craving a rich and comforting dinner that’s still easy to make? This Chicken with Cheese Sauce recipe delivers tender, pan-seared chicken breasts blanketed in a velvety cheese sauce bursting with bold flavor. Perfect for quick dinners, family meals, or weekend indulgence, it’s a recipe that belongs in every home cook’s arsenal. With simple steps, minimal tools, and loads of flavor, it’s one of the best easy dinner ideas you’ll ever try. A perfect blend of quick, cheesy, and satisfying — this dish hits all the right notes for comfort food lovers and busy weeknight chefs alike.
Ingredients
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
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Lime wedges (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Let rest 10 minutes.
2. 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.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream. Cook until slightly thickened, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard. Remove from heat and whisk in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Place chicken on a serving plate or back into skillet. Pour cheese sauce over the top.
7. Sprinkle with diced red bell pepper and parsley. Add lime wedges if desired.
8. Serve immediately with sides like mashed potatoes, pasta, or vegetables.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
Always use warm milk and low heat when adding cheese to avoid separation.
Let the chicken rest after cooking to lock in moisture and enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 145mg