Hey there, friends! Today I’m sharing a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite in your home just like it is in mine: Queso Chicken & Rice Skillet. This dish combines the heartiness of seasoned chicken and fluffy rice with decadent, cheesy goodness. It’s one of those meals that always brings my family to the table with big smiles and even bigger appetites. Let’s dive into this delicious comfort food that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and oh-so-tasty.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Dish
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have this hearty meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for those hectic weekdays when you’re juggling a million things but still want a home-cooked meal. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Family-Friendly Comfort: The creamy queso and flavorful chicken make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. It’s like a warm, cheesy hug that everyone will crave week after week.
- Simple Ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples, this recipe doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it both budget-friendly and accessible. From rice to fajita seasoning, you probably have most of these items in your kitchen already.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to give it your own twist. This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Consider adding bell peppers for a pop of color and extra vitamin C, or even some jalapeños if you want to spice things up.
- Minimal Cleanup: With just a couple of pots and a skillet, cleanup is a breeze, giving you more time to relax after dinner. The less time spent at the sink, the better!
The Recipe
Servings: 5
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 600
Ingredients:
For the Rice:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder
For the Chicken:
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
For the Queso Topping:
- 2 cups prepared cheese dip (such as Gordo’s Original Queso)
Instructions:
Cook the Rice:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the rice and toast for 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden. This toasting step adds a nutty flavor to the rice, enhancing its taste. Add tomato sauce, water, and bouillon powder. Cook according to rice package instructions until fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. The tomato sauce infuses the rice with a rich, slightly tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the queso.Cook the Chicken:
In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). The fajita seasoning imparts a savory, slightly smoky flavor to the chicken, making it the perfect centerpiece of this dish.Heat the Queso:
Warm the cheese dip according to package instructions until hot and pourable. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could enhance the queso by stirring in a bit of chopped cilantro or a dash of hot sauce.Assemble & Serve:
Spoon a bed of rice onto plates or bowls. Top with fajita-seasoned chicken, then drizzle generously with warm queso. Serve hot and enjoy creamy Tex-Mex comfort! Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Medium skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle or serving spoon
These tools are all you need to create this delicious meal, so there’s no need for fancy gadgets or equipment.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Long-Grain White Rice: This type of rice is perfect for absorbing flavors and provides a fluffy, non-sticky base for our dish. It’s a great source of energy and pairs well with robust seasonings.
Yellow Onion: Adds a sweet, savory note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the rice. Onions also bring a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil that helps cook the rice and chicken without overpowering the other flavors. It’s an essential cooking medium that ensures even cooking and enhances the dish’s texture.
Tomato Sauce: Provides a slightly tangy depth, complementing the rich queso perfectly. It enriches the rice with a subtle acidity that heightens the overall flavor.
Chicken Bouillon Powder: Concentrated flavor that boosts the savoriness of the rice. It’s a simple way to infuse a lot of flavor without the need for multiple seasonings.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the fajita seasoning beautifully. Chicken is a versatile protein that complements many flavors and is a staple in quick meals.
Fajita Seasoning: A blend of spices that adds a punch of flavor and warmth to the chicken. It typically includes cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder, giving the chicken a robust, zesty profile.
Prepared Cheese Dip: The star of the dish, it adds creamy, cheesy goodness that ties everything together. The queso provides a luscious, indulgent topping that elevates the meal to comfort food heaven.
What to Serve With This Skillet Dish
Pair this Queso Chicken & Rice Skillet with a simple side salad to add some freshness to your meal. A light Mexican coleslaw with a tangy lime dressing would be a perfect complement. The crispness of the slaw and the acidity of the lime cut through the richness of the queso, creating a balanced meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider serving some warm tortilla chips on the side for scooping up any extra queso. For a complete meal, you might also enjoy a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade or a fruity agua fresca. These beverages provide a sweet, refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors of the skillet.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry. You can also reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the queso, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or as quick leftovers. If you’re planning meals ahead, consider making the rice and chicken in advance and adding fresh queso when serving.
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Queso Chicken & Rice Skillet as much as I do. It’s one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for bringing a little extra joy to your family dinners. Remember, cooking is all about love and creativity, so feel free to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and from my kitchen to yours, buen provecho!
For more delicious family-friendly recipes, you might like my Crispy Beef Tacos or my One-Pot Chicken Alfredo. And if you’re looking for more tips on perfecting rice dishes, check out this helpful guide on cooking rice perfectly every time.