Description
One-Pan Chicken Queso Rice is a delightful fusion of creamy cheese and tender chicken, enveloped in a savory blend of spices. The dish offers a comforting texture with each bite, as the rice absorbs the rich queso sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Rice: 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- Broth: 2 cups chicken broth
- Queso: 1 cup queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
- Vegetables: 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Spices: 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; salt and pepper to taste
- Garnish: Fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the rinsed rice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the queso dip until fully incorporated. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover for 2-3 minutes to melt.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet and warm over low heat until heated through.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with black beans or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: main-dish
- Method: sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Cholesterol: 80 milligrams
Keywords: One-Pan Chicken Queso Rice, chicken quesadilla rice, easy chicken recipes, one-pan meals, cheesy chicken rice, Mexican chicken dish, quick dinner recipes, creamy rice dishes, comfort food, skillet meals, family-friendly recipes, gluten-free chicken recipes