Description
Hearty Mexican-inspired one pot queso chicken and rice delights dinner tables with rich, creamy comfort. Cheese-laden chicken and fluffy rice combine for a simple meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Rice and Liquid Base:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Flavor Enhancers and Toppings:
- 1 cup jarred queso dip
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, carefully searing chicken pieces seasoned with aromatic spices until golden brown and caramelized, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Introduce uncooked rice, fragrant chicken broth, and zesty salsa into the skillet, thoroughly mixing ingredients to create a harmonious blend.
- Lower temperature to low, securely cover the skillet, and allow the mixture to gently simmer for 18-20 minutes, ensuring rice becomes perfectly tender and liquid is completely absorbed.
- Incorporate creamy queso dip, stirring vigorously to create a smooth, luxurious texture that coats every morsel of chicken and rice.
- Optional: Sprinkle generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese across the surface, then cover briefly to allow cheese to melt into a delectable golden blanket, requiring 2-3 minutes.
- Finish by scattering freshly chopped cilantro over the dish, creating a vibrant and aromatic presentation that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Notes
- Enhance protein variety by swapping chicken for turkey, shredded beef, or plant-based alternatives like tofu for dietary flexibility.
- Control spice levels by adjusting chili powder and selecting mild or hot salsa to match personal heat preferences.
- Elevate nutritional content by adding diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans during the rice cooking stage for extra vegetables and fiber.
- Transform leftovers into a delicious lunch wrap or cold salad by mixing remaining queso chicken and rice with fresh greens and additional toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 412 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 710 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg