Easy Baked Queso Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Easy Baked Queso Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are topped with creamy queso dip and melted cheese for a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 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, cumin, and garlic powder)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly season the chicken breasts with your preferred seasoning on both sides.
- Step 2: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread about 1/4 cup of queso dip over each piece, then sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven 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.
- Try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika on top for a spicy kick.
- Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for variety.
Storage
Store leftover queso chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.
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, fully thaw before preparing to avoid uneven cooking.
What can I serve with baked queso chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, beans, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
PrintEasy Baked Queso Chicken Recipe
Easy Baked Queso Chicken is a delicious and simple dinner recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy queso dip and melted shredded cheese, baked to perfection for a comforting and flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Toppings
- 1 cup queso dip
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to enhance the flavors.
- Arrange the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, spaced evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Add queso dip: Spoon the queso dip evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it gently to cover the top.
- Top with shredded cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the queso-covered chicken breasts.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- You can use any type of shredded cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack to add different flavors.
- Serve this dish with rice, tortillas, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce to the queso dip before topping the chicken.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking, or pound them gently if needed.
Keywords: baked chicken, queso chicken, easy dinner, cheesy chicken, baked chicken recipe
