Easy One Pot Queso Chicken And Rice Recipe

Looking for a quick, hearty, and delicious one-pot meal that will satisfy the whole family? This Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve a warm, comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, cheesy rice, and a touch of spice, this dish brings all the flavors of your favorite queso dip into a complete meal.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, you’ll love how simple this recipe is to prepare, with minimal cleanup afterward. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Queso Chicken and Rice

This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s everything you need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 large chicken breasts)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2¼ cups chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) nacho cheese sauce
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the following tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan with high sides and a lid
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon

How to Make Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces or strips, about 1-inch each. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and quickly.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature of 165°F).
   • Tip: If there is excess liquid in the pan from the chicken, carefully drain it to avoid soggy rice later.
3. Add the Liquids: Stir in the 2¼ cups of chicken broth, 15 oz can of nacho cheese sauce, and 10 oz can of Rotel. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the Rice: Once the mixture reaches a boil, stir in 1½ cups of uncooked long-grain white rice. Ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
5. Simmer and Cook: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The rice should absorb all the liquid and become tender. If the rice isn’t quite tender after this time, add a splash of water or broth and cook for a few more minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the rice is cooked, give everything a good stir to combine. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, pico de gallo, chopped tomatoes, or sliced avocado for extra flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Queso Chicken and Rice

• Choose the Right Pan: A skillet with high sides and a tight-fitting lid is essential for even cooking and preventing any liquid from evaporating too quickly.
• Keep an Eye on the Rice: Different types of rice can absorb liquid at different rates. If your rice seems dry before it’s fully cooked, add a little more broth and continue simmering.
• Drain Excess Liquid from Chicken: If your chicken releases too much moisture while cooking, make sure to drain it off. This helps the rice cook properly and prevents the dish from becoming too watery.

Variations and Swaps for the Recipe

This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can adjust it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

• Swap the Chicken: You can easily substitute the chicken breast with chicken thighs, ground beef, or even turkey for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken altogether and add more veggies like bell peppers, black beans, or corn for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Options: If you can’t find nacho cheese sauce, use Velveeta or another melty cheese option. You can also mix in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for added creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Top this flavorful dish with some of these delicious options to take it to the next level:

• Sour cream: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy, cheesy flavors.
• Pico de gallo or salsa: A fresh and zesty topping that brightens up the dish.
• Chopped tomatoes: Adds freshness and a juicy bite.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the spicy, cheesy rice.
• Chopped cilantro: For a burst of herby freshness.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them for another easy meal:

• Storing: Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding liquid as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook and may require more liquid. Plan to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just make sure to add a bit of liquid when reheating to keep it moist.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: For extra heat, you can add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or use hot Rotel instead of the mild version.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

conclusion

This Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and clean-up, it’s a go-to recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the possibilities for customization are endless, so you can make it your own each time!

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