If you’re on the lookout for a mouthwatering dish that combines the richness of cheese with the savory goodness of chicken, then this Pollo con Queso recipe is your ultimate answer! This dish, which translates to “chicken with cheese,” is a classic comfort food that’s gaining popularity for its creamy texture and robust flavors. From busy weeknights to weekend gatherings, homemade Pollo con Queso is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at something new, this recipe is detailed enough to guide even beginners through the process. Get ready to dive into a cheesy, savory delight!
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Why You’ll Love This Pollo con Queso
- Easy Pollo con Queso for beginners: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for those who want to make a flavorful meal without the hassle.
- Best way to make Pollo con Queso at home: Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s an excellent option for a quick family dinner.
- Loaded with flavor: The combination of melted cheese and crispy bacon on tender chicken is irresistible.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
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Ingredients for Pollo con Queso
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Essential ingredient for pollo con queso, these provide the protein base.
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- Adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Best cheese for pollo con queso, offering a sharp and tangy flavor.
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- A spice blend that adds savory depth.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- Freshness and a bit of acidity to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- For added crunch and a smoky essence.
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional, but brightens the presentation and flavor.
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How to Make Pollo con Queso – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat and Mix
- Optional, but brightens the presentation and flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing mix until uniformly mixed.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
Step 3: Assemble Layers
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- Top with diced tomatoes and crumbled bacon.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. This ensures the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an added pop of color and freshness.
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Best Pollo con Queso Recipe – Easy and Delicious
Pro Tips for Making the Best Pollo con Queso
- Secret to the best Pollo con Queso: Ensure your cream cheese is well softened to mix smoothly with other ingredients.
- Can I make Pollo con Queso ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and refrigerate. When ready, bake as instructed.
- Substitutions: For a healthier twist, use turkey bacon instead. Alternatively, if you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese.
- Cooking time variation: If using thicker chicken breasts, consider slicing them horizontally for even cooking.
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Best Ways to Serve Pollo con Queso
- Perfect pairings: Serve with rice or cauliflower rice to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
- Side dishes: Complement with a fresh green salad, or try it with grilled vegetables.
- Drinks: A crisp, chilled white wine or a light lager pairs exceptionally well with the richness of the dish.
- Pair it with our creamy mashed potatoes recipe for a comfort food feast.
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Nutritional Information for Pollo con Queso
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 44g
- Fat: 25g
Note: Nutritional values are estimated and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
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Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Pollo con Queso can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap portions tightly in foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option if you’re in a hurry.
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FAQs for Pollo con Queso
1. Can I freeze Pollo con Queso?
Yes, wrap in foil and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
2. What can I use instead of cream cheese in Pollo con Queso?
You can substitute with a dairy-free version or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
3. How can I make Pollo con Queso spicy?
Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
4. What’s the best way to keep chicken moist?
Ensure not to overcook it, and covering the dish with foil initially helps retain moisture.
—Related Recipes for Pollo con Queso
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Conclusion & Call to Action
Transform your dinner table with the irresistible flavors of Pollo con Queso! Its creamy sauce, melty cheese, and crispy bacon make it a dish that’s hard to resist. We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to click the social sharing buttons to let your friends in on this delightful recipe. Now you know how to make the best Pollo con Queso at home!
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By following this guide, you’re well on your way to crafting a dish that’s not only delicious but also SEO-friendly. With these techniques, you’ll likely see your recipe rise through Google’s rankings, drawing in food lovers from all corners of the internet. Happy cooking and optimization!
Pollo Con Queso
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Pollo Con Queso is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy cheese topping for a delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illness.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with cheese topping
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Pollo Con Queso, Chicken Recipe, Cheesy Dinner, Keto Friendly, Low Carb, Easy Recipes, Comfort Food, Dinner Ideas, Quick Meals, Family Dinner