There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken and creamy queso—it’s the kind of dish that keeps you coming back for more. If you love Tex-Mex flavors and crave cheesy comfort food, this Chicken Con Queso is about to become your new obsession.
Imagine juicy chicken breast coated in a rich, spicy queso sauce, infused with the perfect blend of garlic, onions, and taco seasoning. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips, rice, or warm flour tortillas, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Need a quick and easy one-pan meal for a busy weeknight? Or looking for something indulgent for your next game-day spread? This Mexican-inspired dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Let’s dive in and bring this irresistible dish to life!
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Con Queso
This Chicken Con Queso isn’t just another Tex-Mex dish—it’s a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed meal that’s quick, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting a casual get-together, this dish delivers in both taste and convenience.
Key Benefits of This Recipe:
Easy One-Pan Meal – Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Rich & Creamy Queso Sauce – A perfect blend of Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Rotel tomatoes creates a velvety sauce that coats every bite.
Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice with jalapeños, green chilies, or mild queso to suit your taste.
Pairs with Anything – Serve it over rice, with tortilla chips, or in warm flour tortillas for a meal that fits any occasion.
Meal Prep Friendly – This dish stores and reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers.
With its bold flavors and melty cheese, this chicken queso skillet is bound to be a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Ready to make it? Let’s gather the ingredients!
What You’ll Need to Make Chicken Con Queso
Before we start cooking, let’s make sure you have all the essential ingredients on hand. This recipe comes together with simple, flavorful staples, creating a cheesy, savory dish that’s packed with Tex-Mex goodness.
Main Ingredients:
- Chicken breast or thighs – Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Olive oil or butter – Helps the chicken brown beautifully while adding richness.
- Onion & garlic – These aromatic essentials enhance the depth of flavor.
- Rotel tomatoes (diced with green chilies) – Brings a perfect balance of tanginess and mild heat.
- Jalapeño (optional) – Adds extra spice for those who love a kick.
For the Creamy Queso Sauce:
- Monterey Jack & cheddar cheese – A dynamic duo that melts into a velvety, flavorful sauce.
- Cream cheese – Gives the queso an extra smooth, creamy texture.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half – Creates a rich, silky consistency.
- Taco seasoning – A bold blend of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika to infuse Tex-Mex flavors.
Now that everything is ready, let’s move on to cooking up this irresistible Chicken Con Queso!
How to Prepare Chicken Con Queso
Ready to dive into making this creamy, cheesy Chicken Con Queso? With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a rich, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add your bite-sized chicken pieces and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- If you’re adding jalapeños, toss them in now to release their heat.
Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce
- Stir in the Rotel tomatoes with their juices, followed by your taco seasoning. Let this simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the cream cheese, stirring until it’s melted and smooth.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream, continuing to stir until you have a silky, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Once the sauce is smooth, add the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce is rich and creamy.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the creamy queso sauce.
- Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your Chicken Con Queso over rice, with tortilla chips, or in warm flour tortillas.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of freshness.
Now you’ve got a comforting, cheesy masterpiece that’s ready to devour! Enjoy every flavorful bite.
Pro Tips and Variations for Chicken Con Queso
To take your Chicken Con Queso to the next level, here are some pro tips and creative variations that will make this dish even more delightful and customizable. Whether you’re aiming for extra flavor or simply want to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences, these tips will guide you!
1. Choose the Right Cheese
- For the creamiest texture, opt for Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese—they melt beautifully and bring a mild, smooth flavor.
- If you like a sharper taste, swap out cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy twist. You can also experiment with a blend of Colby or Swiss cheese for a different depth of flavor.
2. Spice It Up
- Want to dial up the heat? Add more jalapeños or even some serrano peppers for a punch of spiciness.
- For a smoky flavor, toss in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or even smoked paprika to give your dish a deeper, richer taste.
3. Make It Healthier
- If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- For a protein boost, toss in some black beans or corn for added texture and nutrition. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein if preferred.
4. Add Vegetables for Extra Color and Nutrition
- Toss in some bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to make the dish more colorful and add a touch of extra flavor.
- Roasted tomatoes or spinach can also add a fresh, vibrant element to the dish.
5. Use Different Bases
- Instead of rice or tortilla chips, serve your Chicken Con Queso over a bed of quinoa for a protein-packed, gluten-free base.
- For a low-carb alternative, serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
6. Add Toppings for Extra Flavor
- Don’t forget to top your Chicken Con Queso with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and even a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. These additions add both freshness and creaminess to balance the rich cheese sauce.
7. Make It a Complete Meal
- To turn this into a full meal, add a side of tacos, nachos, or a simple green salad. It’s also a great topping for baked potatoes or loaded fries.
8. Make It Ahead
- This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
These tips and variations will help you experiment with flavors and textures to make your Chicken Con Queso uniquely yours, whether you’re aiming for something spicy, light, or full of veggies!
Chicken Con Queso – Quick & Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Olive oil or butter
- Onion & garlic
- Rotel tomatoes diced with green chilies
- Jalapeño optional
For the Creamy Queso Sauce:
- Monterey Jack & cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
- Taco seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add your bite-sized chicken pieces and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- If you’re adding jalapeños, toss them in now to release their heat.
Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce
- Stir in the Rotel tomatoes with their juices, followed by your taco seasoning. Let this simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the cream cheese, stirring until it’s melted and smooth.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream, continuing to stir until you have a silky, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Once the sauce is smooth, add the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce is rich and creamy.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the creamy queso sauce.
- Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your Chicken Con Queso over rice, with tortilla chips, or in warm flour tortillas.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of freshness.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Con Queso
Once your Chicken Con Queso is ready, it’s time to serve up this delicious dish in a way that highlights its rich, creamy flavor and versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty main course or a flavorful side, here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal.
1. Serve with Crispy Tortilla Chips
- This is one of the most popular ways to enjoy Chicken Con Queso! The crispy texture of the chips complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleasing choice for parties or casual get-togethers.
2. Pair It with Rice or Quinoa
- Rice is a great base for Chicken Con Queso. Whether it’s white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, it soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- For a protein boost, consider serving it over quinoa. It’s a gluten-free and nutritious alternative that adds an extra layer of flavor.
3. Top Your Favorite Nachos
- Layer your tortilla chips with Chicken Con Queso, then add your favorite nacho toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Bake for a few minutes, and you’ve got a fun, cheesy twist on classic nachos!
4. Pair with a Fresh Salad
- To balance the richness of the cheese sauce, serve your Chicken Con Queso with a light, refreshing salad. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a Mexican street corn salad would complement the dish wonderfully.
5. Wrap It in a Burrito or Taco
- For a more portable meal, spoon the Chicken Con Queso into a soft flour tortilla and add toppings like cilantro, sour cream, and fresh salsa. Roll it up for a delicious burrito or taco experience.
6. Serve as a Dip
- If you want to keep it casual, turn your Chicken Con Queso into a dip for a fun party snack. Pair it with sliced veggies, bread, or even pretzels for dipping.
7. Add a Side of Grilled Vegetables
- For a healthy, flavorful addition, serve your Chicken Con Queso with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob. These charred vegetables bring out the smoky flavors in the queso, creating a balanced plate.
8. Make It a Meal with Sides
- If you’re serving this as a main dish, consider pairing it with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or black beans. These will round out the meal and add additional textures and flavors that complement the creamy chicken and queso sauce.
By experimenting with these serving ideas, you’ll be able to enjoy Chicken Con Queso in many fun and flavorful ways, turning every meal into a unique experience. Whether you’re looking to keep it light or go all out with a big, cheesy spread, these options will work beautifully!
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Chicken Con Queso
Chicken Con Queso is not just a dish—it’s a celebration of flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. The tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and the subtle kick of spices create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or enjoying it yourself, this recipe is designed to impress.
What Makes Chicken Con Queso Stand Out:
- Versatility: From tacos to nachos to simply enjoying it with tortilla chips, Chicken Con Queso is endlessly customizable.
- Rich & Creamy: The combination of melting cheese and tender chicken creates a luxurious dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe is great for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a comforting meal.
By now, you should be convinced that this dish is one to add to your regular rotation. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also the kind of comfort food that’s perfect for any meal, any time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to something special, Chicken Con Queso will quickly win a spot in your heart (and your recipe book). Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Chicken Con Queso?
Chicken Con Queso is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken smothered in a rich, creamy queso sauce made with melted cheese, tomatoes, and spices. It’s a Tex-Mex favorite that pairs perfectly with rice, tortillas, or chips.
2. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken can save time and still deliver great flavor. Just add it to the queso sauce and heat until warmed through.
3. What’s the Best Cheese for Queso?
A combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta works best for a smooth, creamy sauce. You can also use pepper jack for a spicier kick.
4. How Can I Make It Spicier?
For extra heat, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy Rotel tomatoes instead of regular.
5. Can I Make Chicken Con Queso in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Simply add the chicken, queso ingredients, and seasonings to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours or until the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
7. Can I Freeze Chicken Con Queso?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly due to the cheese sauce. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
8. What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve with It?
Serve Chicken Con Queso with Mexican rice, black beans, tortilla chips, or warm flour tortillas for a complete meal.