One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

When I make this One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice, my whole kitchen fills with the smell of smoky spices, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken. I love this recipe because it’s pure comfort in one skillet. The chicken cooks perfectly tender, the rice soaks up all that rich, creamy queso sauce, and the melted cheese on top ties it all together. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug after a long day. I can throw it together quickly, and cleanup is easy since everything cooks in one pan. The best part is watching that gooey layer of cheese bubble up before I serve it, I call it pure magic.

Why One Pot Meals Are the Best

One pot meals are a lifesaver for busy days. They’re easy to prepare, require minimal cleanup, and let all the ingredients cook together to build deep, layered flavor. You get tender meat, perfectly cooked grains, and a rich sauce all in one dish. Plus, they’re versatile. You can effortlessly switch up proteins, spices, or veggies based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, one pot meals are the perfect mix of convenience and comfort.

One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

This One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a creamy, cheesy comfort meal that comes together easily in a single skillet. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Boneless Chicken Breast diced
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 ½ cups Long-grain White Rice uncooked
• 1 can 10 oz Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies undrained
• 2 ¼ cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Nacho Cheese Sauce
• 1 ½ cups Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese

Instructions

 

• In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until chicken is mostly cooked through.
• Stir in the uncooked rice and the entire can of Rotel (including juices). Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the rice slightly and blend the flavors.
• Add the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
• Once the rice is cooked, stir in the nacho cheese sauce and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
• Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the pot, and let it sit for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. Garnish and serve wa

Video

Recipe Tips

For extra flavor, use fire-roasted tomatoes and add a small handful of chopped jalapeños. They’ll give the queso sauce a spicy kick that takes this dish to the next level.

Keyword chicken and rice recipes, ground chicken recipes, one pot meals, queso chicken and rice, rice and chicken

Related

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these: