Skillet Chicken con Queso Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, cheesy dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than this Skillet Chicken con Queso Recipe. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, creamy queso, and zesty salsa for a meal that will have your family asking for seconds. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Skillet Chicken con Queso Recipe is more than just a tasty meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons to love it:

– **Quick & Easy**: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
– **One-Pan Wonder**: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal.
– **Flavor Explosion**: The combination of taco seasoning, queso, and fresh cilantro creates a flavor profile everyone will adore.
– **Customizable**: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Shopping List

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 ounce taco seasoning (Click for Homemade Recipe!)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup half and half
• 2 cups instant white rice
• 1 cup Queso Blanco (homemade or store bought, melted)
• 1 cup thin restaurant-style salsa
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1 can (4.5 ounce) green chiles, drained
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, gather your equipment:

• Large skillet: To cook everything in one pot.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping the chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing.

Skillet Chicken con Queso Recipe — Do This Next

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the cubed chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken. Add 1 tablespoon of water to help the seasoning adhere. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Ingredients

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the half and half, stirring to combine. Then, add the melted queso blanco and the thin restaurant-style salsa. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 4: Incorporate Rice and Green Chiles

Stir in the instant white rice and drained green chiles. Cover the skillet and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors and cook in the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

Once the rice is tender, add the chopped cilantro and pico de gallo. Mix everything together, and let it warm through for another minute.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with additional cilantro. Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, flavorful goodness!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking for alternatives to make this dish vegan or vegetarian, consider the following swaps:

• Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, cubed and sautéed.
• Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative instead of half and half.
• Replace Queso Blanco with a vegan cheese sauce or homemade cashew cheese.
• Ensure that the taco seasoning is free from animal products.

Don’t Do This

While making your Skillet Chicken con Queso, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it may become dry. Cook just until no longer pink.
• Don’t skip the water when adding taco seasoning; it helps distribute the flavor evenly.
• Don’t substitute instant rice with regular rice without adjusting the cooking time and liquid amounts.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving; everyone’s palate is different!

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Skillet Chicken con Queso is a great option for meal prep! Here’s how to make it freezer-friendly:

You can freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the skillet over low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my chicken is dry?

If your chicken turns out dry, ensure you’re not overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) but no more than that. You can also add more half and half to the dish to help moisten it.

Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid and cooking time. Regular rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, so follow the package instructions accordingly.

What if I can’t find Queso Blanco?

You can easily substitute Queso Blanco with any other cheese sauce or even a creamy nacho cheese sauce. Homemade options using cream cheese or cheddar can work well too!

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Adjust to your taste preferences for the perfect kick!

If you love this Skillet Chicken con Queso Recipe, you might also enjoy:

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Skillet Chicken con Queso Recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends and family! Cooking is always more fun when you can share delicious meals with loved ones.

This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With just one skillet and a few simple ingredients, you’re on your way to a flavorful dish that everyone will love. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the cheesy goodness that is Skillet Chicken con Queso!