Cheesy Queso Chicken and Rice
Description
This cheesy queso chicken and rice is a creamy, one-pan dinner packed with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich queso cheese sauce. Made with simple pantry ingredients like Rotel tomatoes, taco seasoning, and cheddar cheese, this easy skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers bold, comforting flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into small cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2-3 tbsp taco seasoning
- 10 oz Rotel or diced tomatoes with green chiles do not drain
- 1 cup long grain white rice uncooked, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup milk or cream
- 4 oz cream cheese cubed, optional
- 1 cup jarred queso dip
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ½ tsp salt plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- chopped cilantro or green onions optional for topping
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then chicken, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Remove chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add taco seasoning and stir for 1 minute. Pour in Rotel with juices and mix well.
- Add rinsed rice, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the skillet. Return chicken and any juices to the pan and mix.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add queso dip and shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3 to 5 minutes to thicken. Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Use long grain white rice for best texture; avoid quick or instant rice.
- Add extra broth if the rice becomes dry before fully cooked.
- Adjust spice level by choosing mild or hot Rotel and taco seasoning.
- Cream cheese is optional but adds extra richness and creaminess.