Creamy Queso Chicken Casserole – Dive into the savory world of Tex-Mex cuisine with this irresistible Creamy Queso Chicken Casserole. A perfect blend of succulent chicken, spicy chilies, and creamy queso, this casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or need a comforting dish for a family gathering, this recipe combines the richness of cheddar and the zest of chili powder to create a memorable meal.
I still remember the first time I made this casserole. It was a chilly evening, perfect for a warm, comforting meal. As the aroma filled the kitchen, it drew my husband and little one to the table in no time. Seeing their eyes light up with the first bite and hearing their delighted “mmm’s” made this dish a recurring request in our household. It’s more than just a meal – it’s a way of bringing us all together, filled with laughter and stories over creamy, cheesy goodness.
What makes this Creamy Queso Chicken Casserole truly stands out?
This Creamy Queso Chicken Casserole stands out for its delightful fusion of American and Mexican flavors, offering a comforting blend that’s both familiar and exciting. It is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet it’s versatile enough to customize for different tastes or dietary preferences. Whether adjusting the level of spice or swapping cheese types, this casserole remains a satisfying dish that brings a taste of Tex-Mex right to your dinner table.
What You Need To Make This Creamy Queso Chicken Casserole Recipe?
- Chicken Breasts: Use skinless and boneless breasts for easy prep and optimal flavor absorption.
- Chili Powder & Cumin: Adjust the amounts of these key spices – chili powder for warmth and cumin for earthiness – to suit your taste.
- Roma Tomatoes: Chosen for their sweetness and firm texture, they stand up well in the oven and add a fresh burst to the dish.
- Green Chiles: Mild in flavor, these chiles add a subtle spice that enhances without overwhelming.
- Chile Con Queso Sauce: I recommend the Desert Pepper brand for its creamy texture and balanced spice, perfect for binding all the flavors together.
- Cheese: You can use Cheddar for tanginess, Monterey Jack for meltiness, or a combination of both for a rich, complex flavor.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that cuts through the dish’s richness.
Steps To Make Creamy Queso Chicken Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F. It’s all about that slow, even heat to perfectly cook the chicken without drying it out.
Step 2: Grab a deep baking dish and lay those chicken breasts in, ready for their transformation.
Step 3: Sprinkle each breast lovingly with chili powder, cumin, and a dash of salt. Think of it as setting the stage for what’s to come.
Step 4: Scatter the first half of your chopped tomatoes and green chiles over the chicken like a festive confetti.
Step 5: Spoon that creamy, dreamy queso sauce over each breast, making sure each one’s nicely coated.
Step 6: Add the remaining tomatoes and chiles, then blanket everything with your chosen cheese. This is where the magic happens!
Step 7: Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect moment when the chicken is no longer pink in the middle and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Finally, garnish with fresh tomato and parsley for that fresh, herbaceous kick. Serve up this heartwarming dish and watch it disappear!
Tip:
To ensure your chicken stays juicy and tender in the casserole, lightly sear the breasts in a skillet for about 1-2 minutes on each side before baking. This quick sear helps lock in the juices and adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy, spicy elements of the casserole beautifully. Plus, it gives the chicken a slightly golden crust that looks and tastes fantastic!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A side of cilantro-lime rice or a crisp green salad complements this dish beautifully, balancing out the richness.
How can I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Creamy Queso Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts skinless and boneless
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 roma tomatoes chopped
- 4 ounces mild green chiles
- 1 c Chile Con Queso sauce medium
- 1 c Cheddar cheese shredded (or mix of Monterey Jack and Cheddar)
- 1 roma tomato chopped, for garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a deep baking dish.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with chili powder, cumin, and salt.
- Add Tomatoes and Chiles: Scatter half of the chopped tomatoes and green chiles over the chicken.
- Add Queso Sauce: Spread the Queso sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Add Remaining Tomatoes and Chiles: Top the chicken with the remaining tomatoes and green chiles.
- Add Cheese: Cover the chicken with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped tomato and parsley before serving.
Notes
Ensure that all packaged ingredients, such as the Chile Con Queso sauce and canned green chiles, are certified gluten-free. Many sauces can contain hidden gluten in the form of thickeners or additives. Always check the labels or contact the manufacturer if you're unsure. This simple step will help you enjoy this delicious, comforting meal without any gluten concerns!
Nutrition
