Queso Salsa Chicken Rice

Queso salsa chicken and rice brings together juicy chicken pieces seasoned with zesty taco spices and baked over a bed of Spanish rice, onions, bell peppers, and Rotel tomatoes. Once cooked, the dish is topped with warm, creamy queso and tangy salsa for a perfect balance of rich and spicy flavors. This one skillet meal keeps things simple with minimal cleanup while delivering maximum comfort and bold southwest taste.

I first made this when friends popped over unexpectedly and everyone went back for seconds. The creamy queso melted into the spicy rice is always the star of the show

Ingredients

• Large boneless skinless chicken breasts: diced to ensure moist and tender bites. Choose fresh plump breasts for best texture and flavor
• Taco seasoning: adds a balanced zesty spice. Pick out a quality packet without added sugar for cleaner taste
• Spanish rice box: brings authentic texture and flavor. Check the sodium content if you are monitoring salt intake
• Chicken broth: provides a deep savory base. Use unsalted or low sodium broth to better control seasoning
• Salsa: contributes juicy bursts and tangy kick. Fresh salsa adds brightness but jarred is convenient too
• Queso cheese dip: offers creamy melty topping. Opt for a smooth queso that melts evenly
• Rotel tomatoes with chilies: give just enough heat. Stick with original or mild depending on preferred spice level
• Yellow onion diced: adds a sweet aroma and bite. Chop evenly for uniform flavor throughout
• Bell pepper diced: adds gentle crunch and color. Use red or yellow for a touch of extra sweetness

Instructions

Prep the Chicken and Oven:

Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Cut chicken breasts into even one inch chunks for consistent cooking. Sprinkle the chicken pieces generously with taco seasoning and toss well so each piece is fully coated with spice

Layer the Rice and Veggies:

Place the uncooked Spanish rice and included seasoning mix in a large oven safe skillet. Pour in chicken broth following the exact amount from your rice package. Add the entire can of Rotel tomatoes including juices plus the diced bell pepper and onion. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined

Top with Chicken and Bake:

Evenly spread the seasoned chicken chunks over the rice mixture. Cover the skillet tightly with foil to trap steam and help the rice cook up fluffy. Place on the middle rack and bake for fifty to sixty minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and chicken is cooked through

Finish Baking:

Remove the foil after baking for an hour and continue to bake uncovered for another ten to fifteen minutes. This allows any remaining broth to absorb and helps the rice and chicken develop a slight golden hue on top

Add Queso and Rest:

Gently warm the queso dip until it is pourable. Drizzle the warm queso all over the surface of the chicken and rice and let the skillet rest for ten to fifteen minutes so the cheese thickens and flavors meld. Serve directly from the skillet for a comforting, hearty meal

My favorite part is stirring the creamy queso into the spicy rice immediately after baking. The whole family always gathers for that moment as the kitchen fills with the scent of melted cheese, roasted tomatoes, and warm spices

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container stored in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave with a quick stir to evenly warm. Adding a splash of water or broth helps keep the rice moist if it feels dry

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier outcome if preferred. Switch yellow bell pepper for red to add sweetness. If Rotel tomatoes are unavailable use diced tomatoes with a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Queso cheese dip can be replaced with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack sprinkled on top and melted

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a wedge of lime and fresh cilantro for brightness. Pair alongside a crisp green salad or roasted corn for a balanced plate. Use leftovers stuffed in warm tortillas for a tasty burrito or serve as a crowd pleasing dip with tortilla chips

Let the skillet rest before serving so the queso sets and flavors meld. Enjoy warm with a squeeze of lime if desired.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces work best for even cooking. Thighs can be used for juicier results.

→ How to prevent rice from becoming soggy or dry?

Measure the broth carefully following the rice package instructions to ensure perfect moisture and texture.

→ Can I make my own taco seasoning?

Yes, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt to create a flavorful homemade seasoning.

→ Are there alternatives to queso cheese dip?

Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be used as a substitute, though queso offers a creamier finish.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Fresh green salad, guacamole, warm tortillas, or roasted corn complement the flavors perfectly.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, ingredients can be assembled in advance and baked when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.