One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a fantastic dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor. This one-pot meal features juicy chicken, creamy queso, and fluffy rice, making it perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s sure to be a staple in your household!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in one pot, reducing prep and cleanup time.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of seasoned chicken and cheesy sauce creates a hearty meal bursting with flavor.
- Family-Friendly: With familiar ingredients, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike!
- Versatile Toppings: Customize each serving with your favorite toppings like avocado or pico de gallo.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week for lunch or dinner.
Tools and Preparation
To make One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or sauté pan: Provides enough space to cook the chicken evenly while allowing for easy mixing of ingredients.
- Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient cutting of chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Ingredients
For this delicious One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) nacho cheese sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel
- 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
How to Make One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces or strips (about 1 inch). This helps ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces along with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165℉. If there’s excess liquid in the pan after cooking, drain it to keep the dish from becoming too watery.
Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
Stir in the chicken broth, nacho cheese sauce, and Rotel tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a boil for optimal flavor infusion.
Step 4: Incorporate Rice
Once boiling, add the uncooked rice to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Cover and Simmer
Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. The goal is for all liquid to be absorbed and the rice tender.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Serve immediately! Top with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, pico de gallo, chopped tomatoes, or sliced avocado for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice!
How to Serve One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with various toppings and sides. Elevating this meal can make it even more delightful for your family or guests.
Top with Fresh Ingredients
- Sour Cream – A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spice.
- Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add a burst of flavor.
- Chopped Avocado – Creamy avocado slices enhance texture and flavor.
Add Crunchy Toppings
- Tortilla Chips – Crushed chips on top add a satisfying crunch.
- Shredded Lettuce – Fresh greens provide a nice contrast to the warm dish.
- Jalapeños – For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapeños bring extra spice.
Garnish with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar – Melting cheese over the top creates an indulgent finish.
- Cotija Cheese – A sprinkle of this crumbly cheese adds a salty bite.

How to Perfect One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
To ensure your One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice comes out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Choose Quality Chicken – Use fresh boneless chicken breast for the best texture and flavor.
- Pre-measure Ingredients – Have everything ready before you start cooking to streamline the process.
- Adjust Liquid Amounts – If you prefer a creamier texture, add a little extra chicken broth.
- Let it Rest – Allow the dish to sit covered for a few minutes before serving for better flavors.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add cayenne pepper or chili powder for added heat.
- Use Leftovers Creatively – Transform any leftovers into burritos or quesadillas for another meal option.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad – A fresh corn salad with lime dressing complements the flavors beautifully.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans provide protein and are great for dipping.
- Guacamole – This classic avocado dip is perfect for scooping alongside your main dish.
- Spanish Rice – Adding another rice dish can be comforting and filling if you love rice.
- Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies offer a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy chicken and rice.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – This zesty rice side brings brightness to your plate, enhancing the overall taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a straightforward recipe, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong rice: Using instant or quick-cooking rice can lead to undesired texture. Always opt for uncooked long-grain white rice for the best results.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause uneven cooking. Make sure to cook in batches if needed for even browning and flavor.
- Neglecting seasoning balance: Skipping or skimping on spices may result in bland flavor. Make sure to measure spices accurately for a well-seasoned dish.
- Not checking doneness: Failing to ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165℉ can be unsafe. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Ignoring resting time: Serving right away might cause the dish to be messy. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving for better flavor absorption.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350℉, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth, stirring occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice.
Can I make One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of nacho cheese sauce?
You can substitute with freshly made cheese sauce or shredded cheese melted into the dish during cooking for a different flavor profile.
Is One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice spicy?
The spiciness depends on the type of Rotel you use. For milder flavors, choose the original Rotel without added chilies.
How do I customize One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or corn. You can also swap chicken for ground turkey or beef if preferred.
What side dishes pair well with One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you could serve it with a simple salad or tortilla chips on the side.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also packed with delightful flavors that will please everyone at your table. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it according to your taste—add veggies, swap proteins, or try different toppings! Don’t hesitate; give this family-friendly meal a try tonight!
One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a delightful, hassle-free meal that brings together juicy chicken, creamy queso, and fluffy rice in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this dish requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of seasoned chicken and rich cheese sauce makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, you can easily customize each serving with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Enjoy a comforting bowl of this hearty Mexican-inspired dish tonight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) nacho cheese sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes
- 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and seasonings; cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Stir in chicken broth, nacho cheese sauce, and Rotel; bring to a boil.
- Add rice, stir to combine, and cover the skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 20-25 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For a creamier dish, add extra chicken broth. Customize with veggies like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition. Use leftover chicken or swap proteins to suit your taste.