Easy Baked Queso Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Easy Baked Queso Chicken is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy queso dip and melted cheese. This simple recipe requires minimal prep and delivers a comforting dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup queso dip
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 teaspoon seasoning (such as taco seasoning or a mix of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly season the chicken breasts on both sides with your chosen seasoning.
- Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread a generous layer of queso dip over each piece, then sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese.
- Step 3: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices before baking.
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cilantro on top for freshness.
- Serve with rice or tortilla chips to soak up the cheesy sauce.
Storage
Store leftover queso chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain moisture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, allow extra baking time and check the internal temperature carefully.
What can I serve with baked queso chicken?
This dish pairs well with Mexican rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the queso and cheese.
PrintEasy Baked Queso Chicken Recipe
Easy Baked Queso Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with rich queso dip and melted shredded cheese. Perfect for a quick dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients with an effortless baking method to deliver a comforting and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
Toppings
- 1 cup queso dip
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon seasoning (such as taco seasoning or a mix of chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your chosen seasoning blend to add flavor.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Spoon queso dip evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the queso layer on each piece of chicken to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy and allow the flavors to settle.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely without overbaking.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top.
- Serve with a side of rice, salad, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: baked queso chicken, cheesy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, queso dip chicken
