Chicken with Cheese Sauce

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Chicken with Cheese Sauce is the kind of dinner that transforms a regular evening into something comforting and unforgettable. Picture tender, seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with crisp bits of bacon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s a dish that balances indulgence and heartiness—perfect for cozy nights or when you need something a little extra to satisfy the craving for comfort food.

This recipe is all about texture and flavor. The chicken is pan-seared until golden and juicy, while the cheese sauce—made from melty, luscious cheeses—blankets everything in velvety richness. Add-ins like sautéed garlic, tomatoes, or a hint of spice can make it your own, but the base is irresistibly simple. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies, pasta, or warm bread to soak up every bit of the sauce.

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What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?

This recipe is flexible when it comes to cheese, but a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella hits the sweet spot between bold flavor and smooth melt. Sharp cheddar brings the tang and depth, while mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess. You can also mix in a bit of parmesan for salty umami, or even Monterey Jack for extra silkiness. Choose high-quality cheese blocks and grate them yourself for best melting results.

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Ingredients for the Chicken with Cheese Sauce

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a hearty base that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken.
• Olive Oil: Helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken while keeping it juicy.
• Garlic: Adds warmth and depth to the cheese sauce.
• Butter: A base fat for the sauce that adds richness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce into a silky texture.
• Milk or Heavy Cream: The creamy foundation that makes the cheese sauce luscious.
• Cheddar Cheese: Brings bold, classic cheese flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds smooth melt and mild creaminess.
• Fresh Parsley: For a bright, fresh finish.
• Cooked Bacon (optional): Adds smoky crunch and layers of flavor.

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How To Make the Chicken with Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation for the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture should look like a thick paste.

Step 4: Add the Milk or Cream

Slowly pour in the milk (or heavy cream), whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until fully melted and smooth. For extra flavor, stir in a bit of grated parmesan if you like.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the cheese sauce generously over the top. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so the chicken absorbs all the creamy goodness.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and crispy cooked bacon, if using. Serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, pasta, or crusty bread.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Chicken with Cheese Sauce

This dish shines brightest when served fresh and hot, right from the skillet. Pair it with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or over a bed of warm pasta for a cozy, hearty meal. Crusty bread on the side? Always a good idea to mop up that luscious cheese sauce.

Leftovers store beautifully too. Let the chicken cool completely, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. For freezing, skip the cheese sauce as it may separate when thawed—just freeze the chicken and make the sauce fresh when ready to enjoy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best cheese combo for maximum flavor?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella give you both punch and melt, but adding a touch of parmesan can boost the umami even more.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and tend to stay even juicier. Just adjust the cook time to ensure they’re cooked through.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes or stir in an extra tablespoon of flour before adding the milk.

What vegetables go well with this dish?

Roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or even steamed green beans pair well and balance out the richness of the cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and prep the sauce separately. Store them in the fridge, then reheat and combine when you’re ready to serve.

Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you want it to be! You can stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a gentle kick.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this cheesy, comforting chicken dish, you’ll want to try these equally delicious meals:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a rich and hearty pasta pairing.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine if you love a fresh citrus zing.
• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce for an ultra-creamy pasta twist.
• One Skillet Sweet & Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta when you’re craving a little heat.
• Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken to bring restaurant flavors home.

These dishes are loaded with flavor and easy enough for any night of the week.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And if you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you stick with cheddar or try a spicy twist? Bacon or no bacon?

Let me know in the comments how you made it yours. Questions are always welcome—we’re in this kitchen together!

Looking for even more cheesy comfort meals? Find more of my favorite daily dishes on Pinterest at Life with Nina.

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