Name: Chicken con Queso
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 3 pieces Roma tomatoes ((diced)); 4 ounces diced fire-roasted green chiles ((1 can)); 15 ounces salsa con queso ((1 jar)); 1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese; chopped fresh parsley ((optional, for garnish))

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a dish like Chicken con Queso. Picture a cozy evening at home, the scent of spices wafting through the air, and all your loved ones gathered around the table. On nights when I want to treat my family to something special, this is my go-to recipe. The combination of tender chicken, rich cheese, and zesty spices creates a harmony of flavors that never fails to impress. Whether you’re having a casual dinner or a festive gathering, Chicken con Queso brings warmth and joy to any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Cutting Board, Chef’s Knife, Oven

What We Adore About This Chicken con Queso

It’s Comfort Food at Its Finest

There’s something so satisfying about the creamy texture of cheese melting over seasoned chicken. When you take that first bite, the flavors meld together perfectly, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

We all have those busy nights when cooking can feel overwhelming. This Chicken con Queso recipe is straightforward and can be whipped up in no time, yet it tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, Chicken con Queso fits the bill. It’s impressive enough for guests, yet simple enough for a family meal, making it highly versatile.

Delicious Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), they taste even better the next day! The flavors deepen as they meld together, making lunch the following day something to look forward to.

Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Want to spice things up? Add some jalapeños! Prefer it mild? Omit the green chiles. It’s easy to tailor to your family’s preferences.

Family-Friendly

Kids love cheese, and they usually can’t resist the allure of this dish. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies too, as the tomatoes and chiles blend seamlessly into the cheesy goodness.

Ingredients for Chicken con Queso

When it comes to creating a dish as delicious as Chicken con Queso, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each one contributes to the overall flavor and texture, creating a delightful harmony in every bite. The star of the show here is the tender chicken, paired with rich cheese and zesty spices, ensuring that every mouthful is bursting with flavor.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein that absorbs all the spices and flavors.
3 teaspoons chili powder – Adds a warm, smoky flavor.

1 teaspoon ground cumin – Enhances the depth of flavor.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – A must for seasoning the chicken.
3 Roma tomatoes (diced) – Freshness and a bit of acidity to balance the richness.

4 ounces diced fire-roasted green chiles (1 can) – For a kick of flavor and a mild heat.
15 ounces salsa con queso (1 jar) – The creamy layer that ties everything together.
1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds flavor.

chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – A touch of color and freshness on top.

Making This Chicken con Queso

Ready to dig into some delicious Chicken con Queso? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Cooking should be fun, so let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your Chicken con Queso bakes evenly. Set the stage for a delicious meal!
Place the chicken breasts in a casserole dish. Now, sprinkle them generously with chili powder, ground cumin, and kosher salt. As you season, make sure to coat the chicken well; this is where the flavors begin to build.

Add the diced Roma tomatoes and green chiles on top of the seasoned chicken. The vibrant colors will make your dish pop and add a fresh element.
Now, spread the entire jar of salsa con queso over the top, ensuring it covers the chicken and veggies completely. This layer adds creaminess and binds all the flavors together.
Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese on top of the salsa con queso. This will create a cheesy crust that’s irresistible!

Slide the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. As it bakes, the cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly topping.
Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This is the hardest part—waiting! You want those flavors to settle a bit before serving.
Serve with extra diced tomatoes and freshly chopped parsley if you like. Each bite of Chicken con Queso is sure to be a hit!

Things Worth Knowing

Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts better and creates a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese.
Check for doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Variations are welcome: Feel free to add ingredients like jalapeños for extra heat or different types of cheese for variety.

Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking to enhance the flavors.

Helpful Hints

Cooking is a journey, and every good chef knows the importance of a few tips to ensure success. Here are some helpful hints to make your Chicken con Queso experience even better.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Freezing: Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cool completely first, then freeze in a well-sealed container for up to three months.
Pairing: Consider serving with a simple salad or warm tortillas to complement the Chicken con Queso.
Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

Garnish: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions make beautiful garnishes to elevate presentation.

What Complements This Chicken con Queso

Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh garden salad or charred corn on the cob for a well-rounded meal.
Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day celebrations.

Storage Tips: Allow leftovers to cool and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness.
Seasonal Pairings: Great for any time of year, but especially during cooler months when comfort food is in high demand.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare your Chicken con Queso in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply take it out, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed. This makes for a great make-ahead meal for busy nights!

Chicken con Queso pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, warm tortillas, or some cilantro-lime rice. These sides complement the rich flavors of the dish and add a refreshing contrast. Plus, they make for a fun, interactive meal where everyone can build their plates!

To store leftover Chicken con Queso, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to do so gently to avoid drying out the chicken and maintaining the creamy texture. Microwaving or reheating in the oven works well!

Yes, you can freeze Chicken con Queso! Once it has cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, then bake until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Conclusion

Chicken con Queso is a dish that truly delivers on flavor and comfort. It’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a delicious meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it might just become a new favorite in your home!

Chicken con Queso

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken con Queso combines tender chicken, zesty cheese, and flavorful spices for a creamy, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this easy-to-make dish is sure to please everyone at the table. You’ll want to add this to your dinner rotation!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Total Time 50

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Cutting Board
Chef's Knife
Oven

Ingredients

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon kosher salt
3 pieces Roma tomatoes (diced)
4 ounces diced fire-roasted green chiles (1 can)
15 ounces salsa con queso (1 jar)
1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Place the chicken breasts in a casserole dish. Sprinkle with chili powder, ground cumin, and kosher salt.
Add diced Roma tomatoes and green chiles on top of the seasoned chicken.
Spread the entire jar of salsa con queso over the top.

Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 40 minutes.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve with extra diced tomatoes and parsley.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts better and creates a creamier texture.
Check for doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Variations are welcome: Feel free to add jalapeños for extra heat.