Queso Salsa Chicken Rice Dish

Queso salsa chicken and rice brings together tender, seasoned chicken with vibrant Spanish rice and fresh vegetables for a comforting dinner that comes together easily in one skillet. The layers of bold southwest flavors come from taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, and salsa, all topped with a creamy queso drizzle to finish. It's a practical recipe perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal cleanup and delivering satisfying results that hold up well for leftovers.

I discovered this recipe when I needed a quick dinner for guests and everyone loved how the creamy queso softened the spice in the rice making it a guaranteed crowdpleaser every time

Ingredients

• Large boneless skinless chicken breasts: diced for even cooking and juicy bites choose fresh plump pieces for best flavor
• Taco seasoning: adds a balanced zesty spice select one with no added sugar for cleaner taste
• Spanish rice mix: provides authentic texture and seasoning check the sodium content if monitoring salt intake
• Chicken broth: for depth of savory flavor using low sodium or unsalted gives control over salt
• Salsa: delivers tangy juicy bursts fresh salsa offers brightness jarred salsa works well too
• Queso cheese dip: lends creamy richness pick a smooth style that melts easily
• Rotel tomatoes with chilies: bring just enough heat select original or mild depending on your spice preference
• Yellow onion: diced for sweetness and aroma chop evenly to distribute flavor
• Bell pepper: diced for crunch and color red or yellow adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice

Instructions

Prep the Chicken and Oven:

Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Cut chicken breasts into uniform one inch pieces so they cook evenly Sprinkle the chunks with taco seasoning and toss well ensuring all pieces are fully coated

Layer the Rice and Veggies:

Add the uncooked Spanish rice with its seasonings directly to a large oven safe skillet Pour in the chicken broth following your rice package instructions Add the entire can of Rotel including juice plus diced bell pepper and onion Stir everything thoroughly until well combined

Top with Chicken and Bake:

Scatter the seasoned chicken evenly atop the rice mixture Cover the skillet tightly with foil to trap steam and help the rice cook fluffy Place on the middle oven rack and bake for fifty to sixty minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and chicken is cooked through

Finish Baking:

Remove the foil carefully after an hour Continue baking uncovered for ten to fifteen minutes This helps the top develop a slight golden crust and ensures broth is fully absorbed

Add Queso and Rest:

Gently warm the queso dip so it becomes pourable Drizzle over the baked chicken and rice Let the skillet rest for ten to fifteen minutes so the cheese sets and flavors meld Serve warm right from the pan

The moment this dish comes out of the oven and fills the kitchen with the smell of bubbling cheese and roasted tomatoes everyone gathers around eagerly waiting to dig in

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days Reheat in the microwave with a quick stir To keep the rice moist add a splash of water or broth before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs can be used for juicier meat Switch yellow bell pepper for red for added sweetness If Rotel tomatoes are hard to find use diced tomatoes with a pinch of cayenne for heat In case queso dip is unavailable sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top and let it melt in the oven

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro for brightness Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted corn for a full meal This dish also makes great filling for burritos or a party dip served with tortilla chips

Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges and serve warm. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth to revive the rice.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What chicken cut works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces provide balanced moisture and even cooking. Thighs can be used for juicier results.

→ How do I prevent the rice from being too dry or soggy?

Measure the broth carefully and follow the rice package ratio to ensure the rice absorbs the liquid perfectly without drying out or becoming soupy.

→ Can I use homemade seasoning instead of taco mix?

Yes, a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt works great as a flavorful substitute.

→ Are there cheese alternatives to queso dip?

Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be melted over the dish, though queso dip provides a creamier, smoother finish.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this meal?

Green salad, guacamole, warm tortillas, or roasted corn pair well and complement the bold flavors.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble ingredients in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time if needed.