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Cheese Chicken & Rice Skillet recipe with creamy sauce and tender chicken.
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Cheese Chicken & Rice Skillet

Creamy, juicy, and comfort-food satisfying, this Cheese Chicken & Rice Skillet is a weeknight hero that delivers big flavor with almost no fuss.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Long-grain white rice Rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup Yellow onion Diced
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • 8 oz Tomato sauce Canned
  • 4 cups Water
  • 1 tablespoon Chicken bouillon powder
  • 3-4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
  • 1 packet Fajita seasoning
  • 2 cups Prepared cheese dip Warmed and pourable

Instructions

  • In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the rice and toast for 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden. Add tomato sauce, water, and bouillon powder. Cover and cook according to rice package instructions until fluffy and the liquid is absorbed, about 18–20 minutes depending on rice. Fluff with a fork before serving.
  • In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). If chicken pieces are larger, add 1–2 minutes more. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
  • Warm the cheese dip according to package instructions until hot and pourable. If the queso is very thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of milk to reach a smooth consistency.
  • Spoon a bed of rice onto plates or bowls. Top with fajita-seasoned chicken, then drizzle generously with warm queso. Garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve hot and enjoy creamy Tex-Mex comfort!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For best texture, reheat rice and chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth, covered, until warmed through.