One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe

If you love creamy, comforting, and flavor-packed meals that come together with minimal fuss, then One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is about to become your new go-to recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, cheesy queso sauce, and fluffy rice in one satisfying skillet meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving something warm and indulgent. The creamy texture and savory spices blend perfectly, creating a vibrant plate of comfort food that’s as delicious as it is convenient.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is how simple yet perfectly balanced the ingredients are. Each one serves an important role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and texture that make every bite unforgettable.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast: The main protein, which stays juicy and tender throughout cooking.
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and adds a subtle richness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, aromatic depth without overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory notes for a well-rounded taste.
• ½ teaspoon cumin: Adds a gentle earthiness and subtle smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Lends a mild kick and warmth.
• 2¼ cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the rice and chicken with flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) nacho cheese sauce: The star of the queso element, adding creamy, cheesy indulgence.
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies): Gives a pop of tangy, mildly spicy brightness.
• 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the delicious flavors and becomes perfectly fluffy.

How to Make One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This simple spice mix adds enough flavor to keep the meat interesting and well-seasoned without masking the cheesy richness to come. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts, cooking each side until golden brown and almost cooked through. This initial browning step locks in juices and adds a little caramelized flavor that takes this one pot dish to the next level.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Liquids

Once your chicken is nicely browned, pour in the uncooked long-grain rice, making sure to spread it evenly across the pan. Then, add the chicken broth along with the entire cans of nacho cheese sauce and Rotel. Stir everything gently, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid and all ingredients intermingle. This step really sets up the creamy and spicy base of your One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice. Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 3: Simmer Until Done

Let everything simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. During this time, the rice will soak up the flavorful broth and queso sauce, becoming tender and creamy at the same time. The chicken finishes cooking as it steams atop the rice, absorbing all those rich, cheesy juices. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as the trapped steam is key to cooking the rice perfectly. After the time is up, check to make sure the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. If necessary, let it rest with the lid on for a few extra minutes to finish off.

Step 4: Fluff and Serve

Before serving, remove the chicken breasts and slice or shred them. Gently fluff the queso-infused rice with a fork to evenly distribute the cheesy sauce, then nestle the chicken back on top or mix it through. This final mixing step ensures every bite combines tender chicken with luscious, gooey queso rice, transforming simple ingredients into pure comfort food magic.

How to Serve One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh garnishes elevates this dish both visually and flavor-wise. Think fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbal brightness, thinly sliced green onions for bite and color, or a dollop of sour cream to cool off the gentle spice. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens all the rich flavors and adds an irresistible tang.

Side Dishes

While One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a hearty meal on its own, pairing it with crisp, fresh side dishes can provide welcome contrast. A simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus, or even some crunchy tortilla chips add texture and freshness to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress at a casual dinner or game day gathering? Serve this dish in individual mini cast iron skillets or colorful bowls to keep the queso warm and melty. You can also scoop portions into taco shells or lettuce wraps for handheld fun, or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers for a creative twist on presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to cool it down quickly before refrigerating to keep the rice from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for a busy day, this dish freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing texture or flavor. Just be aware that the queso sauce may thicken slightly and might need extra stirring when reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave covered in short intervals, stirring between until heated through. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese or a pinch of spice during reheating can boost fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice can be substituted but will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. It’s best to partially cook the brown rice beforehand or adjust the simmer time accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Is this recipe spicy?

The only spice comes from Rotel’s diced tomatoes with mild green chilies, so it has a gentle kick but nothing overwhelming. You can make it hotter by adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne if you prefer more heat.

Can I make One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice in advance for meal prep?

Definitely! It’s a fantastic meal prep option since it keeps well and tastes great reheated. Just store individual portions in airtight containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners.

What can I use if I don’t have nacho cheese sauce?

If you can’t find nacho cheese sauce, a mix of melted cheddar cheese with a little milk or cream can be a good substitute. Cream cheese or Velveeta melted down works well too to achieve that creamy queso texture.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Stirring in some corn, black beans, bell peppers, or even spinach during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking adds color, nutrition, and extra flavor to this already hearty dish.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice truly hits all the marks for a cozy yet exciting meal that never fails to satisfy. It’s creamy, cheesy, comforting, and packed with flavor but comes together effortlessly in a single pan, making clean-up just as easy as cooking. I can’t recommend giving this delicious dish a try enough, especially if you’re craving a delicious and fuss-free dinner that feels homemade and special every time.

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