Go Back
–+ servings
Queso Smothered Chicken and Rice

Queso Smothered Chicken and Rice for Cozy Family Dinners

This Queso Smothered Chicken and Rice is a rich, comforting dish perfect for family dinners, featuring melted queso and juicy chicken.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 tablespoons Oil olive oil or avocado oil works beautifully
  • 1 packet Taco or Fajita Seasoning adds a burst of flavor
  • 2 pounds Chicken Breast or Thighs lean protein base; swap with tofu for vegetarian option
For the Queso Sauce
  • 2/3 lb Boar’s Head White American Cheese key for a smooth, creamy queso
  • 1/2 lb Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack Cheese adds spice and richness; can swap for mozzarella
  • 1 can Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies drained; fresh tomatoes and chilies as substitute
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt enhances flavor; adjust to taste
  • 1 Jalapeño diced; omit for milder dish
  • 1 can Evaporated Milk 12 oz; creates creamy texture
  • 1 can Green Chilies adds flavor; fresh chilies can be substituted
  • Cilantro for garnish; optional
For the Spanish Rice
  • Homemade Spanish Rice complement this dish; check linked recipe

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Fork

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by preparing your homemade Spanish rice according to the linked recipe. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
  2. Slice your chicken into even strips. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken, sear for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked. Remove chicken and let rest.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, add drained Rotel tomatoes and diced jalapeño. Pour in evaporated milk and gradually add cheeses, stir until melted. Add green chilies and cook for 5 minutes while stirring.
  4. Assemble the dish! On each plate, spoon fluffy Spanish rice as a base, top with chicken strips, and drizzle generously with queso sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 500mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is freezer-friendly and makes for excellent meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat as desired.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!