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This creamy queso salsa chicken rice has everything you crave in a comforting meal—savory chicken, spiced rice, melty cheese, and a flavorful salsa kick. It’s a perfect one-pan dish for busy nights or when you want a hearty, satisfying dinner without a lot of cleanup.
I first whipped this up on a whim when I needed to use some pantry staples. It quickly became a family favorite, and now my kids request it regularly.
Ingredients
- Large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Diced for tender protein that soaks up flavor from the seasoning.
- Packet taco seasoning: To add a classic Mexican flair and a punch of flavor.
- Spanish rice: Boxed variety for ease and perfect seasoning balance.
- Chicken broth: Provides moisture and enhances the dish’s overall depth.
- Salsa: Use your favorite variety to bring tang and spice.
- Queso cheese dip: For creaminess that ties all the flavors together.
- Rotel tomatoes: Undrained for a boost of flavor and slight heat.
- Yellow onion: Diced for a touch of sweetness and aromatics.
- Diced bell pepper: Adds crunch and balances the bold flavors.
How to Make Queso Salsa Chicken Rice
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Dice the chicken into 1-inch pieces and toss them in a large bowl with taco seasoning until evenly coated. This step ensures the chicken absorbs all the delicious spice blend.
- Prepare the Rice Mixture:
- In a large oven-safe or cast-iron skillet, combine the Spanish rice (with its seasoning packet), chicken broth, Rotel tomatoes, bell pepper, and onion. Stir everything together thoroughly and ensure the liquid-to-rice ratio matches the rice package instructions.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Evenly spread the seasoned chicken pieces over the rice mixture in the skillet. This setup allows the chicken juices to flavor the rice as it cooks.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 50 to 60 minutes. This step lets the rice and chicken cook evenly while retaining moisture.
- Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the broth is fully absorbed.
- Add the Queso Drizzle:
- Once out of the oven, stir the chicken and rice mixture to combine everything evenly. Heat the queso cheese dip and drizzle it generously over the surface. Allow the dish to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
The salsa is my favorite ingredient in this dish. Its tangy, zesty flavor enhances the overall taste and keeps it from feeling too heavy. Plus, I love how the queso brings everything together, making each bite irresistibly creamy.
Storage Tips
This dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave or oven-safe dish to enjoy as a quick leftover meal. For freezing, place cooled servings in airtight containers and freeze for up to two months.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have chicken, turkey breast works as an excellent substitute. For a vegetarian version, try black beans or roasted veggies in place of the chicken. For those watching dairy, dairy-free queso can be used, and vegetable broth can replace chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
This meal is delicious on its own but pairs well with a side salad or roasted veggies to lighten things up. Serve with tortilla chips for extra crunch or alongside warm flour tortillas.
This one-pan meal is a true staple that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or looking for a reliable meal prep recipe, this queso salsa chicken rice is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can substitute Spanish rice with white or brown rice, but adjust the broth-to-rice ratio accordingly and add extra seasonings to match the flavor profile.
- → What type of salsa works best?
Mild, medium, or hot salsa can be used based on your spice preference. Chunky salsa adds extra texture to the dish.
- → Can I substitute queso cheese dip?
If queso isn’t available, melted shredded cheese such as Monterey Jack or a creamy cheese sauce works well as a replacement.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for the best results.
- → Can I add additional vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add diced zucchini, corn, or black beans to the mixture for added nutrition and variety.