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 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time40 minutesmins
Course: Main
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4servings
Equipment
Large Pot
Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
2cupsLong-grain white riceRinsed and drained
1/2cupYellow onionDiced
2tablespoonsVegetable oil
8ozTomato sauceCanned
4cupsWater
1tablespoonChicken bouillon powder
3-4piecesBoneless, skinless chicken breastsDiced into 1-inch pieces
1tablespoonVegetable oil
1packetFajita seasoning
2cupsPrepared cheese dipWarmed 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.