Easy Cheesy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe

Creamy, cheesy goodness meets weeknight convenience in this mouthwatering one pot queso chicken and rice that will instantly become a dinner favorite.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly to create a comforting meal packed with flavor and simplicity.

Weeknight cooking just got easier with this streamlined recipe that requires minimal cleanup.

The combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and fluffy rice creates a satisfying dish everyone will love.

Protein and carbohydrates come together in a delicious harmony that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Each bite promises a delightful mix of textures and rich, bold flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Queso Chicken and Rice Variations

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with black beans or tofu, using vegetable broth for a meat-free protein-packed meal that maintains the creamy, cheesy texture.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Swap salsa with roasted green chiles and add chorizo for an extra kick of flavor and heat, creating a bolder Mexican-inspired dish.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or riced broccoli, using a low-carb queso and reducing overall carbohydrate content while keeping the dish satisfying and flavorful.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken and Rice

• Fiesta Plate Paradise: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for a vibrant pop of color and zesty flavor.
• Cheesy Companion Delight: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas to scoop up every delicious bite of the creamy queso chicken rice.
• Cooling Contrast Magic: Top with a dollop of cool sour cream or fresh guacamole to balance the warm, spicy flavors and add a creamy texture contrast.
• Quick Family Feast: Pair with a simple side salad or quick coleslaw to create a complete meal that satisfies hungry appetites in minutes.

Storage for Queso Chicken and Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled queso chicken and rice to freezer-safe containers. Wrap securely and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.

FAQs

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but increase cooking time and liquid amount. Brown rice typically needs 45-50 minutes to cook and requires about 1/4 cup more chicken broth.

• What if I don't have queso dip?

You can substitute with cream cheese or nacho cheese sauce. Alternatively, make a quick cheese sauce using melted shredded cheese and a splash of milk.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The current recipe has mild spice from salsa and optional jalapeños. For less heat, use mild salsa. For more kick, add hot sauce or use spicy salsa.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Prepare the dish and refrigerate before adding cheese. When ready to serve, reheat and stir in cheese until melted and creamy.

One Pot Queso Chicken & Rice for Quick Dinners

• Whip Up Hassle-Free Comfort: One-pot meals simplify cooking by minimizing dishes and cleanup, making this chicken and rice recipe a weeknight winner for busy households.
• Create Flavor Explosion: Combining zesty salsa, melted queso, and perfectly seasoned chicken delivers a bold taste experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an exciting meal.
• Family-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Kids and adults will love the cheesy, hearty texture and customizable spice levels, allowing everyone to enjoy a delicious dinner that satisfies different palates.
• Quick Weeknight Rescue: With minimal prep and cooking steps, this recipe provides a speedy solution for families needing a nutritious and tasty meal in under half an hour.

Ingredients for Queso Chicken and Rice

• Chicken: Tender pieces that form the main protein of the dish.

• Garlic Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Blend of spices that add depth and flavor to the chicken and overall dish.

• Rice: Provides a hearty and filling foundation for the one-pot meal.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Salsa: Introduces a zesty and tangy element to the recipe.

• Queso Dip: Creamy cheese sauce that creates a rich and indulgent texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds extra cheesy goodness and melts beautifully.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking and preventing sticking.

• Fresh Cilantro, Sliced Jalapeños: Provide a fresh and spicy finishing touch to the dish.

Making One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sear The Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

• Garlic powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning to brown all sides evenly.

Step 2: Create The Flavor Base

• Rice
• Chicken broth
• Salsa

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Cover the pot and reduce heat to low.

Let it cook for 15-18 minutes until rice becomes tender and absorbs all the liquid.

Step 3: Melt In The Cheesy Goodness

• Queso dip
• Shredded cheddar cheese

Mix thoroughly until the dish becomes creamy and all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Garnish And Serve

• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Serve the dish immediately while hot and bubbling with cheesy deliciousness.

Tips for Creamy, Cheesy Chicken & Rice

• Adjust spice levels by choosing mild or hot salsa, and control heat with jalapeño amount to suit your taste preference.
• Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes after adding cheese to ensure smooth, even melting and creamy texture.
• Replace chicken with black beans or shredded beef for a different protein option that keeps the dish versatile.
• Use long-grain white rice for best results, and avoid stirring during cooking to prevent sticky or mushy texture.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and flavor.

Easy One Pot Queso Chicken And Rice Recipe

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4.9 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy queso chicken and rice brings Mexican-inspired comfort straight to dinner tables with minimal cleanup. Cheesy, hearty ingredients meld together effortlessly, delivering rich flavors you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Grains and Liquid:

• 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 0.25 cup diced jalapeños
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, then add chicken seasoned with garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown on all surfaces.
2. Incorporate uncooked rice, chicken broth, and salsa into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Allow to cook for 15-18 minutes until rice reaches perfect tenderness and liquid is completely absorbed.
3. After rice is fully cooked, fold in queso dip and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the mixture becomes uniformly creamy and well-integrated.
4. Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and optional sliced jalapeños for added zest. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Check chicken doneness by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for safe consumption.
• Customize heat levels by selecting mild, medium, or spicy salsa and adjusting jalapeño quantity according to preference.
• Replace white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added nutritional value and different texture, remembering to adjust cooking liquid and time accordingly.
• Make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free salsa and checking queso dip ingredients for potential wheat-based thickeners.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 458 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg