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Easy Baked Queso Chicken

Easy Baked Queso Chicken
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Easy Baked Queso Chicken is a delicious, cheesy, and flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, spicy queso sauce and baked to perfection. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, delivering comfort and richness with minimal prep and quick cook time.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 chicken breasts (even-sized)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Queso Sauce

  • 8 ounces queso cheese
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (adjust to taste)

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This primes the chicken to soak up the queso sauce beautifully.
  2. Make the Queso Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the queso cheese with milk or cream, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Add the chopped jalapeños into the sauce for mild heat and fresh flavor. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and easy to pour.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the warm queso sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring every piece is fully covered. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top for a golden, melty crust.
  4. Bake Until Perfect: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese bubbles and browns slightly. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.

Notes

  • Choose even-sized chicken breasts to ensure even cooking without drying out.
  • Use real queso cheese for the best melting texture and authentic flavor.
  • Don’t skip resting the dish after baking so juices redistribute and sauce thickens slightly.
  • Customize your spice level by adding more jalapeños or using milder peppers if desired.
  • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken without guessing.

Nutrition

Keywords: queso chicken, baked chicken, creamy chicken, cheesy chicken, quick dinner, Mexican-inspired chicken, weeknight meal, easy recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/easy-baked-queso-chicken/