Description
This One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice recipe is the kind of dish that brings the whole family to the table—quick, flavorful, and dripping with creamy queso goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 2¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, jalapeños
Instructions
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until chicken is mostly cooked through.
Stir in the uncooked rice and the entire can of Rotel (including juices). Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the rice slightly and allow flavors to mingle.
Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until rice is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the nacho cheese sauce and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the pot, and let it sit for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. Garnish as desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Long-Grain Rice: Short-grain rice or instant rice may become mushy.
- Don’t Skip the Rotel: It’s key to the dish’s Tex-Mex flavor.
- Make It Spicier: Add cayenne or a diced jalapeño with the chicken.
- Leftovers Tip: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
Keywords: Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice