Description
Creamy queso, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice come together in one pot for a hearty, flavorful Tex-Mex meal. Simple steps, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup make it the perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup queso sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
- 1 cup black beans or corn (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Fresh cilantro and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Add to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Aromatics:
- In the same pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Toast the Rice:
- Add rinsed rice to the pot. Stir to coat the grains with oil and aromatics. Toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour in chicken broth and stir in queso sauce until fully combined.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add optional ingredients like diced tomatoes or black beans for extra flavor and texture.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rice will absorb the broth and become tender.
- Final Touches:
- Check if the rice is fully cooked. If needed, add a splash of broth and cook a few more minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and let melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions. Serve warm with tortilla chips or a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Choose the Right Rice:
Use long-grain white rice for the best results. Avoid instant or parboiled rice, as they may not absorb flavors or hold up well during cooking. Rinse the rice to remove excess starch for fluffier grains. - Adjust the Consistency:
If the dish is too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth before serving. For a thicker texture, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce excess liquid. - Layer the Flavors:
Sautéing the onion, garlic, and rice before adding the broth enhances the flavor of the dish. Season the chicken well and toast the rice for a richer, deeper taste.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min