Easy Baked Queso Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Easy Baked Queso Chicken is a simple and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, flavorful queso. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it requires minimal ingredients and effort while delivering big taste.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup queso dip
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Step 2: Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish and evenly spread the queso dip over the top of each piece.
- Step 3: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the queso is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the queso topping.
- You can substitute queso dip with shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese if desired.
- Serve with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the chicken tender and the queso creamy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken completely before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Easy Baked Queso Chicken?
This dish pairs well with Mexican rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
PrintEasy Baked Queso Chicken Recipe
Easy Baked Queso Chicken combines tender chicken breasts topped with creamy, melted queso cheese and a blend of spices for a quick and flavorful bake that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Queso Topping
- 1 cup queso cheese dip
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
Spices
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat dry the chicken breasts and place them evenly in a baking dish.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Evenly sprinkle this spice blend over the chicken breasts, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add the Queso Topping: Spoon the queso cheese dip over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness and a golden crust.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the queso topping is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the queso to set slightly.
Notes
- Chicken breasts can be pounded to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For added spice, mix some diced jalapeños into the queso dip before topping.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: baked chicken, queso chicken, easy chicken dinner, Mexican-inspired chicken, cheesy chicken bake
