Savory Pollo Loco: Mexican Chicken Rice with Queso Delight

Pollo Loco, or Mexican Chicken Rice with Queso, is a fiesta for your senses! Imagine tender chicken marinated in zesty spices, nestled atop a fluffy bed of rice, all drenched in creamy queso. creamy chicken corn chowder The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. For more inspiration, check out this creamy crockpot chicken tortellini recipe.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or lively gatherings with friends. I remember the first time I made it; my friends declared me the “Queen of Mexican Cuisine.” Little did they know it was just a sprinkle of spice and a dash of love that turned an ordinary evening into an unforgettable culinary adventure.

I still chuckle when my friend tried to impress us by claiming he could make it better—spoiler alert: he couldn’t!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 breasts, adjusting according to your guest count for a satisfying meal. For more inspiration, check out this crispy air fryer chicken recipe recipe.

• Long Grain Rice: Opt for long grain for fluffy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. comforting wild rice soup.

• Fresh Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors for visual appeal and sweet crunch in every bite.

• Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves to enhance the flavor profile magnificently.

• Onion: A yellow onion works best; sauté until soft for that aromatic base layer.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness; chop finely to sprinkle over before serving.

• Queso Blanco Cheese: Creamy queso adds richness; melt generously over your chicken and rice. savory chicken avocado sandwich.

• Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Oregano): These spices are essential for authentic Mexican flavors; adjust based on your heat preference.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep the dish flavorful yet balanced in saltiness.

• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors—don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Tools

Start by gathering your pots and pans: a large skillet and a saucepan will do wonders here. Get your chopping board ready for some vegetable action!

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine lime juice, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them soak up those bold flavors while you prep other ingredients.

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat some oil in your skillet over medium heat. Toss in chopped onions and bell peppers until they soften and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes should do.

Cook the Rice

In another pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice and cover with a lid once boiling begins. Reduce heat to low and let simmer until all liquid is absorbed—approximately 15-20 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Remove marinated chicken from the bowl and place it in the skillet with sautéed vegetables. Cook each side until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. delicious butter chicken skillet.

Combine Everything

Once rice is fluffy, add it to the skillet with chicken and veggies. Gently stir everything together while adding generous amounts of melted queso blanco on top. Let everything mingle on low heat until warm—you want those flavors to unite!

And there you have it! Serve your Pollo Loco hot garnished with fresh cilantro for that extra zing. Enjoy as everyone gathers around the table with smiles (and maybe some friendly competition over who can eat more).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in your spices, then sear until golden brown, and finally simmer with rice and queso for a delightful finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheese for a dairy-free option or add black beans for extra protein and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat to maintain flavor and moisture.

I remember the first time I made Pollo Loco for my friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they devoured every bite!

FAQ

What can I serve with Pollo Loco?

Serve it alongside fresh guacamole or a vibrant salad to complement the flavors.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp or tofu for a delicious twist on this dish.

How spicy is Pollo Loco typically?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference; it’s usually mild to medium spicy.

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Pollo Loco – Mexican Chicken Rice with Queso

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• Author: Michaela Thompson
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Pollo Loco, a vibrant Mexican Chicken Rice dish topped with creamy queso, is a culinary celebration that will awaken your taste buds. This easy-to-make recipe features tender marinated chicken served over fluffy rice and colorful bell peppers, finished with a generous drizzle of melted queso. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, Pollo Loco is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table!

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup long grain rice
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• ½ cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 cup queso blanco cheese (shredded)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Marinate chicken in lime juice, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in rice, cover, reduce heat, and simmer until liquid is absorbed (15-20 minutes).
4. Cook marinated chicken in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Combine cooked rice with sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Top with melted queso blanco and mix gently over low heat until warmed through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
• Calories: 615
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 43g
• Cholesterol: 95mg