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One-Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso Cheese

Mexican Queso Chicken and Rice

This one-pan Mexican Queso Chicken and Rice is packed with Tex-Mex flavor, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and gooey queso cheese—comfort food with a bold twist!

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 generous portions 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup store-bought queso dip
  • 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes.
  4. Stir in uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  6. Remove lid and stir in queso dip until creamy and well combined.
  7. Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend on top. Cover for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese.
  8. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime juice if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Add jalapeños or cayenne for heat, swap protein for ground beef or black beans, or toss in veggies like corn or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pan
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: queso, chicken, rice, one pan, Tex-Mex, cheesy, quick dinner