Elevate your dinner game with our Chicken Smothered in Queso recipe! This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy queso sauce, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Smothered in Queso:
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken breasts.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and pounded thin for even cooking.
- Orzo: A small pasta that complements the dish.
- Chicken Broth: Adds flavor to the orzo.
- Tomato Paste: Enhances the sauce’s depth and richness.
- Chili Powder or Southwest Seasoning: Adds a hint of spice and flavor.
- Baja Marinade: Provides a tangy and zesty marinade for the chicken.
- Velveeta Cheese Loaf: Melts smoothly for the queso sauce.
- Rotel: Diced tomatoes with green chilies, adds a kick of flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and chili powder or southwest seasoning. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook Orzo: In the same skillet, add orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Stir in chicken broth, tomato paste, and Baja marinade. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Make Queso Sauce: Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine Velveeta cheese loaf and Rotel. Stir occasionally until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Return cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the orzo. Spoon the queso sauce over the chicken and orzo, ensuring everything is well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Divide chicken and orzo among plates. Drizzle with additional queso sauce if desired. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken Thickness: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
- Orzo Texture: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure the orzo cooks evenly.
- Queso Thickness: Adjust the amount of Rotel and Velveeta to achieve your desired thickness for the queso sauce.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo? A: Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like penne or farfalle. Adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Smothered in Queso? A: This dish pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious queso sauce.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier? A: Increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapenos to the queso sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Variations
Customize your Chicken Smothered in Queso with these variations:
- Cheese Variety: Substitute Velveeta with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Options: Swap chicken breasts with boneless pork chops or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Vegetable Additions: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn kernels for added texture and flavor.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly adaptation:
- Replace orzo with cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for higher fat content.
- Opt for full-fat cheese options and ensure other ingredients are low-carb.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs:
- Serve the chicken and queso sauce over steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
- Use a low-carb marinade or omit entirely for a simpler flavor profile.
- Minimize the amount of orzo or substitute with a low-carb pasta alternative.
Indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of our Chicken Smothered in Queso! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish promises to deliver on flavor and satisfaction. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it’s bound to become a new go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Stay tuned to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration. Enjoy!
