There's nothing quite like the creamy, cheesy comfort of One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice on a chilly evening—or any day, really! This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and a luscious queso sauce into one irresistible meal. It's a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

I first made this recipe during a frantic dinner scramble, and it quickly became a family favorite. With just one pot to clean and bold Tex-Mex flavors in every bite, it’s easy to see why we keep coming back for more. Ready to see what makes this dish so special? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to dinner recipe! This One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice has everything you’re looking for in a comforting, hassle-free meal.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. You’ll only need one pot, which means minimal cleanup—a lifesaver on busy nights when nobody feels like doing dishes.

Second, it’s bursting with Tex-Mex flavor. Between the smoky spices, tender chicken, and creamy queso sauce, every bite is a fiesta for your taste buds.

Plus, it’s a complete meal in one. With protein-packed chicken, hearty rice, and a cheesy sauce, you don’t even need a side dish to round things out—though some tortilla chips or a side salad wouldn’t hurt!

Finally, this recipe is highly customizable. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out the protein, or dial up the heat, there are endless ways to make this dish your own.

Ready to get started? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that bring this recipe to life.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They cook quickly and absorb all the delicious spices, staying juicy and tender.
Long-grain white rice: This rice cooks evenly and absorbs the queso sauce beautifully, giving the dish a creamy, satisfying texture. Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy.
Queso cheese dip: Store-bought queso dip is the star of this recipe. Its smooth, cheesy flavor is perfect for creating a quick and easy sauce. Choose a medium or mild variety depending on your spice preference.
Chicken broth: Adds moisture to cook the rice while infusing it with extra flavor. If you’re out of chicken broth, water will work, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Spices: A mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika gives the dish its Tex-Mex flair. Adjust the chili powder for more or less heat.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel): These add a tangy, slightly spicy kick and complement the queso sauce perfectly.
Onions and bell peppers: A quick sauté of these veggies adds sweetness and crunch to balance the creamy queso.

Equipment Note

All you’ll need is a large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid. Make sure it’s big enough to hold the rice, chicken, and sauce without overflowing!

How to Make This One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Making this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Let me walk you through the process step by step:

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat up until shimmering. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the diced onions and bell peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. The veggies will pick up all the flavorful bits left behind by the chicken.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix everything well, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Queso

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the queso cheese dip. The sauce should be smooth and creamy, coating every grain of rice and piece of chicken. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the finished dish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Options

This recipe is perfect for leftovers, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch! Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezer: While the texture of the rice may change slightly, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Make-ahead tip: Prep the chicken and veggies in advance, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Swap the protein: Try using shrimp, ground beef, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Add more veggies: Stir in corn, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Spice it up: Use spicy queso dip or add jalapeños for an extra kick.
Use brown rice: If you prefer, substitute long-grain brown rice. Just note that it will require a longer cooking time.
Cheese lovers: Top the dish with shredded cheese before serving for even more cheesy goodness.

However you choose to customize it, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your own creative twists!