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Queso Chicken and Rice Bake

Queso Chicken and Rice Bake for Irresistible Comfort Food Fun

This Queso Chicken and Rice Bake is a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and rich queso for a family-friendly dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 tablespoon Oil For browning the chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Turkey breast can be a lighter option
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning Mix Homemade is a lower-sodium alternative
  • 1 cup Salsa con Queso Choose according to your heat preference
  • 1/2 cup Milk Substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version
  • 1 can Diced Green Chilies Fresh jalapeños can spice it up
  • 1 medium Red Pepper Yellow or green bell peppers work well too
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions Regular onions can be used for a bolder taste
  • 3 cups Cooked White Rice Brown rice can offer a nutritious twist
  • 2 cups Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese Any melting cheese like Cheddar is also fantastic
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Tomatoes and Cilantro Consider avocado or sour cream for extra delight

Equipment

  • 13x9-inch baking dish
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the seasoned chicken for about 6-8 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, combine salsa con queso, milk, and diced green chilies. Stir in red pepper, green onions, and remaining taco seasoning.
  4. Fold cooked rice into the queso mixture and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Place the browned chicken over the rice and pour the reserved queso sauce on top.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
  7. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
  8. Let it rest briefly, then garnish with tomatoes and cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 34gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfectly brown the chicken for added flavor. Customize with your favorite ingredients and allow the casserole to rest after baking for better serving.

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