Queso Salsa Chicken Rice

This Queso Salsa Chicken and Rice dish is my go-to when I want a no-fuss crowd-pleaser. Everything bakes up in one skillet with big flavors from salsa, Rotel tomatoes, and gooey queso cheese on top. Perfect for getting dinner on the table with minimal dishes on a busy night.

I made this first when we had guests over midweek and everyone went back for seconds The creamy queso on the spicy rice is always a hit

Ingredients

• Large Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: diced for moist protein in every bite choose fresh plump breasts for best results
• Taco Seasoning: brings zesty balanced spice pick a good quality packet with no added sugar
• Spanish Rice Box: adds authentic flavor and texture check the sodium content if you are watching salt
• Chicken Broth: for deep savory taste unsalted or low sodium lets you control flavor
• Salsa: gives juicy bursts and tangy kick use fresh for brighter taste jarred is fine too
• Queso Cheese Dip: for creamy topping buy a smooth style queso that melts easily
• Rotel Tomatoes with chilies: provide just the right level of heat stick to original or mild depending on spice preference
• Yellow Onion: diced sweet bite and aroma chop evenly for consistent flavor
• Bell Pepper: diced gentle crunch and color try red or yellow for extra sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken and Oven:

Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Cut chicken breasts into equal one inch chunks for even cooking Sprinkle the chicken pieces with taco seasoning Toss until all pieces are fully coated

Layer the Rice and Veggies:

Add the uncooked Spanish rice and included seasonings to a large oven safe skillet Pour in chicken broth according to your rice package directions Add the full can of Rotel tomatoes including juices plus the diced bell pepper and onion Stir thoroughly so all ingredients are mixed

Top with Chicken and Bake:

Evenly scatter the seasoned chicken chunks on top of the rice mixture Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil This traps the steam helping the rice get fluffy Bake for fifty to sixty minutes on the middle rack until the rice has absorbed the liquid

Finish Baking:

Remove the foil after an hour Continue baking uncovered for ten to fifteen more minutes Check that the broth is fully absorbed This step helps the top of the rice and chicken get a slight golden color

Add Queso and Rest:

Warm the queso dip gently so it is pourable Drizzle all over the surface of the baked chicken and rice Let the skillet cool and set for ten to fifteen minutes so everything thickens Serve right from the pan

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My favorite part of this meal is swirling the creamy queso into the spicy rice My family always gathers around when it comes out of the oven with the scent of bubbling cheese and roasted tomatoes filling the kitchen

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days This reheats easily in the microwave with a quick stir A splash of water or broth helps revive the rice if it seems dry

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs give juicier results if that is your preference Swap red for yellow bell pepper for extra sweetness If you cannot find Rotel use diced tomatoes with a pinch of cayenne Add shredded cheese if queso dip is not available just sprinkle and melt it in

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Serving Suggestions

Spoon onto plates with a wedge of lime and fresh cilantro for garnish Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted corn It also works stuffed into burritos or as a party dip with tortilla chips

Cultural and Historical Context

This recipe takes classic Tex Mex flavors and makes them weeknight friendly Using boxed Spanish rice and jarred queso is a practical shortcut but still delivers those comforting spicy cheesy notes you find in traditional restaurant dishes

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces are ideal. Thighs can also be used for juicier results.

→ How do I keep the rice from turning out soupy or dry?

Use the exact rice-to-broth ratio recommended on your rice packaging and measure the liquid carefully for perfect texture.

→ Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Absolutely! Mix your favorite chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt as a substitute.

→ Is it possible to use different kinds of cheese?

Yes, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack can be melted over the top if queso dip is unavailable, but queso adds extra creaminess.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Simple sides like a green salad, guacamole, or warm tortillas pair well to complete this meal.

→ Can I make this ahead?

You can assemble the ingredients in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time as needed.