Name: One-Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts; 1 cup Uncooked long-grain rice; 1 cup Chicken broth; 1 cup Milk; 0.5 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 0.25 cup Chopped green chilies; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper

What is comfort food? Remember those nights when your mom would make mac and cheese? Is it like a warm hug in tin? What is a One-Pot Queso Chicken and rice? What’s the best part? Everything cooks together in one pot, which means fewer dishes! Think of it as the sophisticated, grown-up version of mac and cheese, but way easier than making a sandwich. Full-blown casserole. Is it the kind of meal that makes everyone happy? Will devour this one. My kids ask for it at least once a week!

What is a one-pot queso chicken and rice?

What is this magical dish? What is a creamy rice casserole? What is the best way to sauté chicken and veggies for a bit of flavor? What is a lotta cheese Think of it as a shortcut version of classic queso dip but transformed into an enjoyable and satisfying experience. How does the rice cook in the cheesy, flavorful broth, absorbing all those delicious flavors? What are some ways to keep chicken tender? What is the perfect meal for a weeknight meal? I spend hours in the kitchen. I made this for a potluck once, and it was gone in minutes!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What I love about this One-Pot Queso Chicken and rice is how easy it is to make. We’re talking minimal effort for maximum flavor. I’m short on time but still want something homemade. It’s the perfect solution. Is it better to order online than takeout?

Flavor Explosion:The combination of savory chicken, cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice is just… What are some good veggies to add to a queso? Is there a symphony of flavors in every bite?
Ridiculously EasyAs I mentioned, the one-pot aspect is a game-changer. No need to dirty several pans. Everything cooks together in perfect harmony. I mean, who doesn’t love fewer dishes to wash?
Budget friendlyWhat are some of the best ingredients to cook at home? Chicken, rice, cheese, and some basic veggies – that’s all you need. What is the best way to feed a family without breaking the bank?
Super Versatile:How do I customize this recipe? What are some ways to substitute ground beef for chicken? What is the best way to get extra Is there a blank canvas for culinary creativity? I like to add diced tomatoes and green chiles for a little extra southwest flavor. For example, I have sliced tomatoes in my freezer.

What’s your go-to tomato soup recipe? What are some easy weeknight pasta recipes? What is a queso chicken and rice?

How to Make One-Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Quick Overview

What are some of the easiest recipes to follow? What are some good ways to brown chicken and sauté veggies in a large pot? What are some of the best ways to cook rice, broth, and spices? How is the broth absorbed? What’s the best way to serve queso? The beauty of this method is that the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken. What are some of the best veggies and broths to make it incredibly flavorful and creamy? Is this a hands-off dish?

Ingredients

What is the recipe for Queso Chicken and Rice?

1 tablespoon olive oil per 1 cup.
1 pound boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
1 onion, finely chopped.
1 bell pepper (any color), chopped, 1 garlic clove.
2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 clove
1 cup long grain rice. 1 teaspoon sour
2 cups chicken broth. 1 cup chicken stock. 2
1 teaspoon chili powder for 1 minute.
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 jar queso dip. 1 (8 ounces) .1
Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream.

How do you follow

Step 1: Sauté Chicken and Vegetables

In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. It doesn’t have to be fully cooked through at this point, as it will continue to cook with the rice. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. I always make sure to mince garlic so it doesn’t burn.

Step 2: Add Rice, Broth, and Spices

Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil. I usually use low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness of the final dish.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook

Return the chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the sauce is thick. How much liquid is absorbed? How do you keep the lid on tight so that the rice steams properly? I always set a timer so I don’t forget about it!

Step 4: Stir in Queso

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the queso dip until melted and creamy. Be gentle when stirring so you don’t mash the rice too much. I’ve tried using different brands of queso, and honestly, they all work pretty well. Just use your favorite!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! This is one of those dishes that’s best served hot and fresh.

What should I serve it with?

What is a one-pot queso chicken and rice? What are some good ideas for it out, here are a few.

What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner?Serve with a side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the rich and creamy rice. I sometimes toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber.

For Taco Tuesday Fiesta:Add black beans and corn to the rice for extra flavor and texture, and serve with all your favorite side dishes. What are your favorite taco toppings?

For a potluck or BBQ:What are some good side dishes to serve at a potluck? What is a good alternative to potato salad? I’ve served it alongside grilled chicken or burgers, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

For a Cozy Night In: Pair it with some warm tortilla chips for dipping. It’s like having a big bowl of queso dip with rice and chicken mixed in – the ultimate comfort food! Sometimes I like to add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top and broil it for a few minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your One-Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Alright, let’s talk about some insider tips to make sure your One-Pot Queso Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time.

Chicken Prep: Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces. This ensures that it cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out. I always trim off any excess fat before cutting it up.

Rice Choice: Long-grain rice works best in this recipe. It holds its shape well and doesn’t get mushy. I’ve tried using short-grain rice before, and it ended up being a little too sticky for my liking.

Broth Ratio: Use the correct amount of broth. Too much broth and the rice will be soggy, too little and it will be dry. Stick to the 2 cups of broth for 1 cup of rice ratio.

Spice Level: Adjust the spices to your liking. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer it milder, omit the cayenne pepper altogether. My kids aren’t huge fans of spice, so I usually leave it out.

Queso Quality: Use a good quality queso dip. The better the queso, the better the flavor of the final dish. I’ve found that some of the cheaper brands can be a little too thin and watery.

Don’t Overcook: Don’t overcook the rice. Once the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, remove the pot from the heat immediately. Overcooked rice will be mushy and unappetizing.

Resting Time: Let the rice rest for a few minutes before stirring in the queso. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice and helps it absorb any remaining liquid.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix. Corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, or even some chopped spinach would all be great additions.

Storing and Reheating Tips

So you’ve made a batch of One-Pot Queso Chicken and Rice, and now you have leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat it to keep it tasting delicious.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is my go-to method for storing leftovers.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the One-Pot Queso Chicken and Rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date so you know when you made it.

Reheating on the Stovetop: To reheat, transfer the rice to a saucepan and add a splash of broth or water to help loosen it up. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This is my preferred method for reheating because it helps to maintain the texture of the rice.

Reheating in the Microwave: Place the rice in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of broth or water. Cover and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even heating.

Reheating from Frozen: If reheating from frozen, you can either thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it directly in the microwave. If microwaving from frozen, add a little extra broth or water and microwave in 2-3 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Queso Freshness: If the queso seems a little dry after reheating, stir in a spoonful of milk or cream to restore its creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add some extra vegetables like black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes. You could also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so you’ll need to simmer it for about 40-45 minutes and add an extra 1/2 cup of broth.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the rice, broth, and spices. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the rice is cooked. Stir in the queso before serving.

Can I add more cheese?

Of course! Feel free to add some shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or pepper jack cheese along with the queso. The more cheese, the merrier!

What if I don’t have queso dip?

If you don’t have queso dip on hand, you can make your own! Melt together some cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and a little bit of milk or cream. Add a pinch of chili powder and cumin for flavor.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my family’s all-time favorite One-Pot Queso Chicken and Rice! It’s a dish that’s always a hit, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. If you’re looking for another super simple one pot dish you can also check out my One-Pot Lemon Herb Pasta Recipe! Seriously, the creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the savory chicken and perfectly cooked rice is just irresistible. I hope you give this recipe a try and that it becomes a new favorite in your household too. Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!