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One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

This One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious — the perfect comfort meal made in just one pan! Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich queso combine to create a satisfying dinner that’s full of flavor and ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for easy supper ideas with rice, easy dinner for two chicken, or easy chicken one pan recipes when you want something cozy, simple, and comforting.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 1¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes with green chilies like Rotel
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup prepared queso dip store-bought or homemade
  • ¼ cup milk or cream optional, for extra creaminess
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Sear the Chicken:
  2. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden, about 4–5 minutes, then remove and set aside.
  3. Cook the Aromatics:
  4. In the same pan, add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add Rice and Spices:
  6. Stir in uncooked rice, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Toast for 1 minute to build flavor.
  7. Add Liquids:
  8. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir, then return the cooked chicken to the pot.
  9. Simmer:
  10. Cover and cook over low heat for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  11. Add Cheese and Queso:
  12. Stir in shredded cheddar, queso dip, and milk (if desired). Mix until the sauce becomes creamy and coats everything evenly.
  13. Serve and Garnish:
  14. Spoon into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For faster prep, use minute rice and reduce the broth slightly.
  • Keep heat on low when adding cheese to prevent clumping.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days — it reheats perfectly!
  • Use spicy queso for an extra flavor kick.