Arroz Con Pollo Cheesy Chicken

Arroz Con Pollo Cheesy Chicken brings together flavorful grilled chicken seasoned longgrain rice and a decadent cheese sauce for a vibrant crowdpleasing meal. The rice simmers with tomatoes onion garlic and aromatic spices forming a fragrant fluffy base. Juicy chicken seared with a blend of cumin chili and sazon adds a savory bite. Creamy queso blanco sauce featuring smooth Velveeta pepper jack and mild green chiles ties it all together with a luscious finish. Serve it layered or wrapped in warm tortillas for a cozy satisfying meal that blends classic Mexican zest with melty cheesy comfort.

I first made this when my kids begged for their favorite restaurant meal at home and now the cheesy rice aroma instantly means everyone comes running to the table.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice: for fluffy separate grains basmati is ideal for holding its shape
• Cooking oil: such as avocado oil which gives a slightly nutty note and resists burning
• Yellow onion: diced for sweetness and body that builds flavor
• Fresh garlic cloves: minced for deep flavor using fresh bits gives the best result
• Sazon seasoning: adds color and classic Latin flavor check labels if avoiding MSG
• Chicken flavored bouillon: enhances umami so choose a good quality brand
• Tomato sauce: adds body and a hint of tang low sodium works well if you prefer less salt
• Water: is key for light fluffy rice filtered water if available is better
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: give juicy tender bites thighs are juicier while breasts stay tender if not overcooked select the freshest you can find
• Butter: adds rich flavor to the chicken and helps with browning
• Garlic powder and onion powder: bring extra layers of savory aroma
• Chili powder and cumin: contribute warmth and smokiness essential for Tex Mex flavors
• Salt and pepper: balance all components kosher or sea salt is preferred
• Evaporated milk: makes for a super creamy cheese sauce always check expiration dates for freshness
• Queso Blanco Velveeta: melts smoothly and creates that classic restaurant sauce feel adjust amounts to your taste
• Diced green chilis: add mild zing canned works fine just drain any excess liquid
• Grated pepper jack cheese: melts into a creamy layer grate from a block yourself for the best melt and flavor

Instructions

Toast the Rice:

Add rice to a skillet with oil over medium high heat. Stir continuously for about three to four minutes until the grains turn lightly golden and aromatic. This step gives the finished dish a rich nutty flavor and better texture.

Add Aromatics:

Stir in diced onion and minced garlic. Let them cook for two to three minutes until the onions start turning translucent and fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that signals the base of flavor is building.

Season and Simmer:

Add sazon seasoning chicken bouillon tomato sauce and water to the pan. Stir gently to combine then bring everything to a rolling boil. Cover tightly with a lid reduce heat all the way down and let it simmer untouched for fifteen minutes. Keeping the lid on is crucial for perfectly steamed grains.

Let Rest:

Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for another fifteen minutes. This gentle rest keeps the rice fluffy and prevents sticking. Do not stir until the resting time is up to ensure proper texture.

Prepare the Chicken:

Slice raw chicken into very thin strips for quick even cooking. Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium high. Toss in the chicken then sprinkle garlic powder onion powder chili powder cumin sazon seasoning salt and pepper evenly. Stir often and cook for four to five minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and lightly browned.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

Combine evaporated milk Queso Blanco Velveeta diced chilis and grated pepper jack cheese in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly. The cheese will gradually melt and blend into a creamy thick sauce. Remove from heat and allow it to thicken as it cools for a few minutes.

Build the Plate:

Fluff the rice gently then scoop it onto plates. Top with hot chicken slices and generously drizzle with the warm cheese sauce. For a restaurant quality experience add a side of warm tortillas to scoop or wrap the mixture.

My favorite part is always the pepper jack cheese because of the little kick it adds. I always think of how my daughter would sneak extra shredded cheese just to snack on while waiting for dinner. The sizzle and scent of onion and cumin in the pan remind me of lively Sunday cooking with the whole family bustling around.

Storage Tips

Let your leftovers cool down completely before storing. If you have extra rice and chicken keep them separate from the cheese sauce in airtight containers. Both rice and chicken can be stored in the fridge for three to four days. The cheese sauce might thicken in the fridge but a splash of milk while reheating brings it right back to creamy perfection.

Ingredient Substitutions

Brown rice can be used if you prefer a nuttier bite and extra fiber. Chicken thighs instead of breasts yield juicier meat. Try Monterey Jack or cheddar cheeses if Queso Blanco is not available. Sazon seasoning can be swapped for a homemade mix of coriander cumin and achiote powder to keep that Latin flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Arroz Con Pollo shines on its own but adding fresh chopped cilantro or diced tomatoes on top provides freshness. Sliced avocado and a squeeze of lime brighten the rich flavors. Warm flour or corn tortillas turn it into handheld comfort food. Pairing it with a crunchy salad or refried beans makes the meal even heartier.

This Arroz Con Pollo Cheesy Chicken is a comforting crowd pleaser that comes together quickly. Serve with warm tortillas and fresh cilantro for bright contrast.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can chicken thighs be used instead of chicken breast?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs offer a juicier, more tender texture with a richer flavor, making them a great alternative.

→ What type of rice works best?

Long grain white rice, such as Basmati, is ideal as it stays fluffy and absorbs the aromatic spices and tomato base beautifully.

→ How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?

Stir constantly over medium heat until all cheeses melt fully into the evaporated milk, creating a velvety, creamy sauce.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare the rice, chicken, and cheese sauce separately and combine before serving to preserve fresh textures and flavors.

→ Can tortillas be served alongside?

Yes, warm flour or corn tortillas add a traditional touch, perfect for scooping or wrapping the chicken and rice mixture.

→ What’s the key to fluffy rice?

Let the rice steam covered off the heat without stirring after simmering to keep grains separate and tender.