Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice – Quick & Delicious Recipe

Name: Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 cup long-grain rice (white or brown); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup queso cheese sauce; 1 cup chopped bell peppers (mix of red and green); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Published: April 11, 2025

by Vanessa

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing chicken dish combines ease of preparation with mouthwatering flavors.
It’s visually stunning with its vibrant colors and creamy texture.
Enjoy it any night of the week or serve it at gatherings.
Plus, cleanup is a breeze since it’s all made in one pot!

Ingredients for Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

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Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, depending on how many people you’re feeding; they cook quickly and soak up flavors beautifully.
Long-Grain Rice: Opt for white or brown long-grain rice for the best texture; it absorbs all the cheesy goodness perfectly.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the flavors balanced and control saltiness; it’s the base of our delicious sauce.
Queso Cheese Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought queso or make your own; it’s the star of this creamy dish.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green bell peppers adds color and sweetness; chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Onion: Diced onion brings aromatic flavor; use yellow or white onion for a classic touch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced finely for an aromatic kick that elevates the whole dish.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop some up for garnish right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

For more inspiration, check out this one pot chicken meals recipe.

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and bell peppers into small pieces. Mince the garlic until fragrant. You want everything ready to go because we’re going to work quickly!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing them until they soften—around five minutes should do it. Add minced garlic in the last minute so it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the pot. Sear each side for about four minutes until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through at this point; they’ll finish cooking later.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Pour in the long-grain rice and chicken broth, stirring everything together while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Bring it all to a simmer.

Step 5: Stir in Queso Sauce

Once simmering, lower the heat and stir in your queso cheese sauce until everything is well combined. The mixture should be creamy and inviting.

Step 6: Let It Simmer

Cover your pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about twenty minutes or until rice is tender. Stir occasionally but don’t lift that lid too much!

When it’s finally time to serve, sprinkle chopped cilantro over each serving for that fresh pop! Transfer to plates (or bowls) and enjoy this delightful meal that promises warmth, comfort, and plenty of cheesy goodness.

With Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice on your table, you’ll not only satisfy hungry bellies but also create moments filled with laughter—and maybe even a few cheesy puns along the way!

You Must Know

This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook your rice while preparing the creamy queso sauce. This way, everything comes together harmoniously and saves you from juggling pots like a circus performer.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some diced bell peppers or corn for extra color and crunch! You can even spice things up with jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep everything nice and creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
Always let your dish sit for a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Experiment with different cheeses for added richness and depth.

I remember the first time I made this Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice for my family; they devoured it in minutes! Their smiles were worth every minute spent cooking.

FAQs:

What is Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice?

Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a delicious and simple meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and creamy queso sauce, all cooked in one pot. This dish stands out for its convenience and rich taste. The ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. You can easily customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours.

How long does it take to prepare Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice?

Preparing Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes time for chopping ingredients, cooking the chicken, and allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors in the pot. Learn more about my cooking journey With this quick cooking time, it’s an ideal choice for those who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice ahead of time. Once cooked, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Read our terms of use When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great option for meal prep or leftovers that still taste amazing.

What can I serve with Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice?

Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad to add crunch or some roasted vegetables for extra nutrition. For a fun twist, you can also serve tortilla chips on the side so you can scoop up any extra cheesy goodness from the pot. Enjoy!

Conclusion for Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice:

In summary, Easy One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Its simplicity lies in using just one pot, making cleanup easy while ensuring all ingredients blend seamlessly. With customizable options available, this recipe caters to various tastes while providing essential nutrients. Whether you’re preparing it ahead or enjoying it fresh off the stove, this dish guarantees satisfaction every time!

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