Description
A flavorful and comforting one-pan Chicken Cheese and Rice dish combining tender seasoned chicken with savory spices, creamy queso cheese, and vibrant tomatoes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried cilantro
- 1 tsp chili powder
Rice and Sauce
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Finishing and Garnish
- 1/2 cup white queso cheese dip
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken breast into small bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the diced chicken. Season with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, dried cilantro, and chili powder. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is almost cooked through.
- Toast the Rice: Push the cooked chicken to one side of the skillet. Add olive oil and the rinsed rice to the center of the skillet. Toast the rice for a few minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick or burn, to enhance its flavor.
- Add Flavorings and Liquids: Add the minced garlic, Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine the ingredients.
- Simmer the Rice: Once the mixture starts bubbling, cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the white queso cheese dip until it melts evenly throughout the dish for a creamy consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the chicken, cheese, and rice mixture with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for spiciness.
- Use a non-stick skillet to avoid food sticking during toasting and simmering.
- If queso cheese dip is unavailable, substitute with a mild melted cheese like Monterey Jack.
- This dish can be garnished with extra lime juice for added brightness.
