Chicken with Cheese Sauce (Printable version)
Juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy cheddar-Parmesan sauce; pairs well with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables.
# List of ingredients:
→ Chicken Preparation
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Cheese Sauce
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
07 - 1 cup whole milk
08 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
12 - salt and black pepper, to taste
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Season chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper.
02 - In a large oven-proof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken breasts for 3 to 4 minutes per side until well browned.
03 - Transfer the skillet with chicken to the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken, place on a plate, and cover to keep warm.
04 - In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
05 - Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking until mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Lower heat. Stir in shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until cheese is fully melted and sauce is silky. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
07 - Arrange chicken breasts onto plates and generously spoon cheese sauce over each. Serve immediately.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The cheese sauce is secretly foolproof, delivering rich comfort even when you’re feeling rushed.
- This has become my go-to dish whenever I want to impress without stress or when friends drop in unannounced.
02 -
- If you rush the flour stage, your sauce may turn lumpy—go slow and whisk well for silky results.
- Letting the chicken rest keeps it juicy and prevents the cheese sauce from sliding right off.
03 -
- Let the chicken reach room temperature before cooking so it sears evenly.
- Sneak in a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra savory twist.