Queso Chicken Skillet

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors, which is exactly what you’ll find in this Queso Chicken Skillet. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I craved something warm and satisfying. As I sautéed the chicken and added the queso, the aroma filled my kitchen, instantly making it feel cozy and inviting. It became a go-to meal for busy weeknights because it’s not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. My family loves how the layers of flavor meld together, and I appreciate how simple it is to make.

Ingredients Required for Queso Chicken Skillet

When it comes to the Queso Chicken Skillet, the ingredients are simple yet incredibly effective. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. From the hearty chicken to the creamy queso, they all work together harmoniously.

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil – This essential fat helps sauté the chicken, adding flavor and preventing sticking.
• 2 1/2 cups Chicken Broth – Provides a savory base that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1 10-oz bag Yellow Rice with Seasonings – A quick and easy addition that brings texture and flavor.
• 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – The star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness.
• 1 14-oz can Diced Tomatoes – Adds freshness and acidity to balance the richness of the cheese.
• 1 4-oz can Diced Green Chilis – This brings a touch of heat and flavor complexity.
• 4 ounces Queso Fresco – Adds a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (chopped, optional) – A refreshing garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
• 8 ounces White American Cheese (cubed or shredded) – Melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we love.
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the queso.

How to Make Queso Chicken Skillet

Making the Queso Chicken Skillet is a straightforward process that brings all those delicious ingredients together. Follow these steps for a satisfying meal that will leave everyone wanting seconds.

1. Begin by slicing the boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes it easy to eat later. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they’re browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Next, pour in the chicken broth and then add the yellow rice. Stir everything together to combine, making sure the rice is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the flavors and cook through.
3. While the chicken and rice are cooking, prepare the queso. In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the heavy cream and white American cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Keep it on low heat to prevent burning.
4. After 30 minutes, check the chicken and rice. If the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced green chilis, and the melted cheese sauce. Mix everything until well combined.
5. Top the mixture with crumbled queso fresco, or shredded Monterey Jack if you prefer. Place the skillet under the broiler in your oven for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. The fresh herbs brighten up the dish beautifully!

Tips and Variations

If you’re looking to make the Queso Chicken Skillet even more exciting, here are some tips and variations to consider.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before broiling. Just cover tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Pairing: Serve it with a side of salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, add diced jalapeños or use spicy queso.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or black beans for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Serving Ideas for Queso Chicken Skillet

When it comes to serving the Queso Chicken Skillet, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

• With Tortillas: Serve it with warm tortillas for a fun, interactive meal where everyone can make their own tacos.
• Over Rice: For those who love carbs, serve the Queso Chicken Skillet over a bed of fluffy rice.
• Garnish: Add extra toppings like chopped green onions, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
• For Game Day: This dish is a fantastic appetizer for game day gatherings. Pair it with tortilla chips for a cheesy dip.
• Kids’ Favorite: Kids often love this dish! Serve it alongside their favorite veggies for a balanced meal.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the winter, it’s a warming comfort food, while in summer, enjoy it with a refreshing salad.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Queso Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that combines creamy cheese and savory chicken for a comforting meal. I highly encourage you to give it a try for your next family dinner. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Queso Chicken Skillet

The ultimate comfort food, Queso Chicken Skillet is creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor. This easy weeknight dinner will have your family coming back for seconds, making it a must-try recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 590

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2.5 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 10-oz bag Yellow Rice with Seasonings
• 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
• 1 14-oz can Diced Tomatoes drained
• 1 4-oz can Diced Green Chilis drained
• 4 oz Queso Fresco crumbled (Monterey Jack will also work)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro chopped (optional)
• 8 oz White American Cheese cubed or shredded
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the yellow rice. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce heat to low, letting it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream and white American cheese over medium-low heat, stirring until melted.
4. After 30 minutes, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, green chilis, and melted cheese sauce.
5. Top with crumbled queso fresco and broil in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: If the rice has not cooked through after 30 minutes, return the cover to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, adding time as necessary.

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Meet Jade Summer

Reliability is just as important as flavor. I am the one double checking measurements and testing temperatures. I cooked this recipe repeatedly, troubleshooting any tricky parts, so you can trust that it will turn out perfectly the very first time you try it.