How to Make Cheesy Chicken over Rice

How to Make Cheesy Chicken over Rice

Cheesy chicken over rice is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and fluffy rice creates a satisfying and delicious meal. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making cheesy chicken over rice at home. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple to follow and will surely become a family favorite.

Cheesy chicken

Cheesy chicken over rice is a versatile and customizable dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. By following this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the comforting flavors of cheesy chicken over rice in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To make cheesy chicken over rice, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of dried cilantro
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
• 1 can (10 ounces) of Rotel tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) of tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 cup of long grain white rice (uncooked)
• White queso cheese dip
• Fresh cilantro for topping

Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, cumin, dried cilantro, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices. Cook the chicken until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Making the Cheese Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, heat the Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, minced garlic, and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Once the mixture is heated through, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cooking the Rice

In a separate pot, cook the long grain white rice according to the package instructions. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.

Assembling the Dish

To assemble the cheesy chicken over rice, start by adding the cooked rice to a serving dish. Next, pour the cheese sauce over the rice, making sure to cover it evenly. Add the cooked chicken on top of the cheese sauce. Finally, drizzle the white queso cheese dip over the chicken and rice.

Tips and Variations

• If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add diced jalapenos to the cheese sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
• For a healthier version, you can use brown rice instead of white rice and opt for a reduced-fat or light queso cheese dip.
• To add more vegetables to the dish, you can sauté some bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms along with the chicken.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the sauce. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can all work well in this recipe.

ALSO READ: How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread with Hamburger Buns

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy chicken over rice can be served on its own as a main dish or paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas on the side for a Tex-Mex twist.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

A1: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with boneless skinless chicken thighs or even shrimp for a seafood twist.

Q2: Can I make this dish in advance?

A2: While it’s best to enjoy cheesy chicken over rice fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when you’re ready to serve. Keep the cheese sauce, cooked chicken, and rice separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and heat them together.

Q3: Can I freeze cheesy chicken over rice?

A3: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the rice may become mushy upon thawing and reheating.

Conclusion

Making cheesy chicken over rice is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal. By following this recipe and adding your own personal touches, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the cheesy goodness of this classic dish!

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