Creamy Queso Chicken Bake Recipe
Introduction
Queso Chicken Bake is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken with cheesy queso and rice. It’s an easy, delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Chicken (quantity as desired)
- Queso (enough to cover the chicken and rice)
- Rice (cooked, quantity as desired)
- Cheese (shredded, enough to sprinkle on top)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, layer the cooked rice evenly on the bottom.
- Step 2: Place the chicken pieces on top of the rice.
- Step 3: Pour the queso sauce over the chicken and rice, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top layer.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.
Tips & Variations
- Use cooked, shredded chicken for quicker assembly.
- Add diced green chilies or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Top with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving for extra flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To maintain creaminess, you can cover it while reheating to prevent drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully cook and thaw the chicken before layering it in the bake to ensure even cooking.
What type of queso is best for the bake?
Use a smooth, creamy queso sauce that melts well and has a balanced cheese flavor. Store-bought or homemade queso both work great.
PrintCreamy Queso Chicken Bake Recipe
Queso Chicken Bake is a comforting, creamy casserole that combines tender chicken, savory queso dip, fluffy rice, and melted cheese for a hearty, delicious meal perfect for family dinners or easy entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Queso
- 1 cup queso dip
Rice
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Make sure the chicken is cooked and shredded or diced, the rice is fully cooked and cooled slightly, and the queso dip and cheese are ready to use.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a baking dish, start by spreading the cooked rice evenly across the bottom. Next, add the chicken evenly over the rice, then pour the queso dip evenly over the chicken layer. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Queso Chicken Bake!
Notes
- Use leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder to the queso layer.
- Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for enhanced flavor.
- Cover the casserole with foil if cheese browns too quickly to ensure even melting.
Keywords: queso chicken bake, creamy chicken casserole, baked chicken recipe, cheesy chicken bake, easy dinner recipe
