There’s something special about gathering around a family table. The smell of tasty dishes fills the room. I remember one evening when I made Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso. It became a favorite right away.
I looked through my pantry and found chicken thighs and spices. I was excited to make something cheesy and good. With just 30 minutes, the rice bubbled and the queso sauce melted.
The yummy smells made me know I was making a special memory. This traditional Mexican dish always makes everyone happy. Let’s learn how to make it in your kitchen.
What is Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso?
Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso is a favorite dish. It’s known as Arroz Con Pollo. It has tender chicken, seasoned rice, and a cheesy sauce.
This mix of flavors and textures is loved by many. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual meals.
This recipe is simple and tasty. It’s great for busy nights. It takes only 10 minutes to prepare and cooks in about 20 minutes.
It serves up to six people. You can add taco seasoning, salsa, and queso cheese dip for extra flavor.
Enjoying this dish means savoring its delicious taste. The creamy queso topping makes it even better. It’s a favorite in many kitchens.
Ingredients for Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso
Making Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso is fun. You need fresh, tasty ingredients. Each part is important for a true Mexican taste.
Essential Ingredients for the Rice
Start with the rice base. You’ll need:
- 1 1/2 cups of parboiled or converted rice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 1/4 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons of paprika
- 2 teaspoons of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
Key Ingredients for the Chicken
The chicken needs good protein and spices. Here’s what you need:
- 2 1/4 pounds of fresh chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat the chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for added heat
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons of cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Delicious Cheese Sauce Components
A creamy cheese sauce is key. Here’s how to make it:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- Diced green chilies (optional for an extra kick)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso
Making Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso is a great way to impress. It’s easy and delicious. Start by getting all your ingredients ready.
First, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a big skillet. Add three large chicken breasts. Cook for 6-8 minutes.
Then, add one ounce of Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix. Mix in 1.5 tablespoons of water. This makes the chicken taste amazing.
Next, cook the rice. Use 2 cups of instant white rice. It cooks fast. Add 1 cup of half and half or heavy cream for creaminess.
Now, mix in a cup of premade queso blanco. It makes the sauce smooth. Add one cup of salsa, 4 oz Old El Paso™ Chopped Green Chiles, 1/4 cup of cilantro, and 1/2 cup of pico de gallo.
Top it all with a cup of Mexican blend cheese. Put the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. This melts the cheese perfectly.
This recipe takes 35 minutes to make. It serves 6 people. Each serving is full of protein, carbs, and nutrients.
How to Prepare the Rice
Getting the rice right is key for a tasty chicken and rice dish. The right way to cook it makes a great base. I start by toasting the rice to make it taste better.
Toasting the Rice for Flavor
Toasting the rice makes it richer. I heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet. Then, I add 2 cups of long-grain rice and stir for 3-4 minutes. This makes the rice taste better and smells great.
Cooking Methods for Perfect Rice
After toasting, I add diced onion and garlic. They soften for a minute. Then, I add tomato sauce, Sazon seasoning, chicken bouillon, and 4 cups of water.
I bring it to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes. I don’t stir. After, I let it sit for 15 minutes off the heat. Then, I gently stir to fluff the rice. This way, every grain is just right.
Preparing the Chicken for Your Dish
To make a tasty Mexican dish, I start with the chicken. I make sure it’s full of flavor and cooked just right. I cut 2 pounds of chicken breasts into thin strips.
This makes the chicken cook evenly and stay tender. It’s a key step for a great dish.
Then, I heat 2 tablespoons of oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet. The oil should shimmer before I add the chicken. I sprinkle 1 tablespoon each of garlic, onion, chili, and cumin on the chicken. I also add a pinch of salt and pepper.
This mix adds warmth and zest to the dish. It makes the Mexican food even more delicious.
Cooking the chicken takes about 4-5 minutes. I stir it often to get even browning. When it hits 165°F, it’s ready. This prep makes a dish that will wow anyone who loves Mexican food.
Making the Homemade Queso Sauce
Creating a delicious homemade queso sauce makes cheesy chicken and rice even better. It adds a creamy texture and a rich taste. Making this sauce is easy with simple ingredients.
The Best Cheese Combinations
For the best queso sauce, mix evaporated milk with Velveeta queso blanco. Add diced chilies for zest. Finish with pepper jack cheese. This mix creates a creamy flavor that’s perfect with chicken and rice.
Thickening Your Queso for Perfect Consistency
To get the right consistency, stir the cheese mix over medium heat until it melts. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step is key for a great drizzle over chicken and rice.
Assembling Your Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso
Start by putting a big scoop of cooked rice on a plate. Then, add the grilled chicken on top. This lets the flavors mix well.
Next, pour the homemade queso sauce over the chicken and rice. This makes every bite super cheesy.
Try warming up flour tortillas for a fun twist. They’re great for scooping up the tasty mix. In no time, you’ll have a dish full of flavor and comfort.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
When I serve Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso, I add traditional Mexican flavors. I also pair it with tasty sides. This makes an easy Mexican dinner into a full meal that fills both the belly and the heart.
Adding Traditional Mexican Flavors
For a fun twist, add fresh jalapeños or hot salsa. These ingredients make the meal taste better. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness. A squeeze of lime adds a zesty touch that goes well with the cheesy dish.
Perfect Sides and Accompaniments
No Mexican dinner is complete without yummy sides. Here are some favorites:
- Refried beans add a creamy texture and boost the flavor.
- Guacamole brings a rich, creamy contrast.
- A simple salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the meal.
These sides work well with the cheesy chicken and rice. They make for a great Mexican meal.
Variations of Cheesy Chicken and Rice
I love trying new things with my favorite cheesy chicken and rice. A few changes can make it feel like a whole new dish. Here are some ideas to make your meal exciting!
Spicy Chicken and Rice Options
Want something spicy? Add diced jalapeños to the chicken. Use spicy queso for more heat. I also try chorizo or tempeh for a spicy twist.
Spicy chicken and rice is tasty and fun. It makes your meal exciting.
Flavorful Additions to Customize Your Dish
I add veggies to my rice for color and health. Bell peppers, corn, or black beans make it taste better. They also make it look great.
These add-ons bring extra flavor and texture. They make the dish fun to eat.
Why This Dish is a Family Favorite
Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso is a hit at our house. It’s a favorite for family dinners. The mix of chicken, rice, and queso is full of flavor.
This dish is easy to make. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. It feeds four people easily. The colors and smell make it feel like a party.
The queso makes everyone happy, kids and adults alike. It’s creamy and goes well with chicken and rice. Kids always want more of this tasty dish.
This recipe is good for you too. It has 42 grams of protein per serving. It’s a filling meal for growing kids.
Adding this dish to our meals has made dinner special. It’s not just food; it’s an experience. The smells and happy faces make it unforgettable.
Tips for a Successful Easy Mexican Dinner Recipe
Making a tasty Mexican dish like Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso is easy. Just remember to prepare well and store leftovers right. Here are some tips to help you.
Prep Tips for Quick Cooking
Start by getting all your ingredients ready. Measure and chop veggies early. This makes cooking faster and more fun.
Storing Leftovers and Meal Prep Ideas
Leftovers from this dish are great. Store them in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days. They taste even better after a day or two.
Reheat dry leftovers with olive oil to keep them moist. Meal prep helps you have tasty meals ready all week. It makes life easier.
Explore Other Delicious Mexican Cuisine Recipes
If you love Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso, there’s more to try. Mexican cuisine is full of rich flavors and diverse dishes. Here are some popular options that show Mexico’s essence.
Popular Mexican Dishes to Try
- Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas
- Taco Boats
- One Pot Taco Spaghetti
- Pozole in red, green, and white variations
- Chicken street tacos
Complementary Recipes to Enjoy
- Salsa with tomatoes, chiles, and onion
- Ceviche with fresh shrimp
- Grilled corn on the cob (elote)
- Tamales, featuring slow-cooked goodness
- Traditional desserts like buñuelos
Your Thoughts on Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso
Share your thoughts on Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso. It’s quick to make and full of flavor. You might have added veggies or used turkey or tofu instead of chicken.
Using fajita seasoning makes it taste even better. The chicken should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit for the best flavor.
This dish is great for a big meal and keeps well in the fridge. Did you make any special changes, like using low-fat queso? Your ideas can make this recipe even better for everyone.
How did you serve it? With tortillas, avocado, or a salad? Your suggestions can help others enjoy this dish as much as you do. Let’s share our experiences and love for this delicious Mexican food!
