Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Pollo Loco Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso! This dish is a fiesta of flavors that brings together perfectly seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a glorious, creamy queso that just makes everything sing. I remember the first time I made this for a gathering—it was a chilly evening, and the aroma filled my kitchen like a warm hug. Everyone gathered around, and the smiles on their faces as they took that first bite? Pure magic! Trust me, this dish is so easy to whip up, and it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, you’ll love how quickly it comes together and how it warms you right down to your toes!
Ingredients List
2 cups cooked rice
1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 cup queso cheese, shredded or cubed
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (you can use store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, whichever you prefer)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
How to Prepare Pollo Loco Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making Pollo Loco! I promise it’s easier than it sounds, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. Grab your favorite pan, and let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First things first, you’ll want to heat up that lovely olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. I love using olive oil because it adds a nice flavor and keeps everything from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers just a bit—perfect for sautéing!
Next, toss in your diced chicken breast and sprinkle that taco seasoning right on top. Stir it all around so the chicken gets nicely coated. Cook it for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Trust me, the smell will be irresistible!
Step 3: Mix in Rice and Tomatoes
Now it’s time to add your cooked rice and diced tomatoes into the pan. Make sure to give it a good mix! You want the rice to soak up all those yummy flavors. Stir it around for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined. It’s starting to look good, right?
Step 4: Add Queso Cheese
Here comes the best part—pour the queso cheese over the chicken and rice mixture. Stir it all together until the cheese is melty and gooey, coating every bite. This is where the magic happens! You’ll want to keep stirring for a minute or two until everything is beautifully combined and bubbling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle that fresh chopped cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot, and watch everyone dig in with big smiles! This dish is perfect on its own or alongside some crunchy tortilla chips for that added texture. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! I always find it helpful to know what I’m putting in my body, especially when a dish is as delicious as this one. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving of my Pollo Loco Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso:
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, knowing that you’re enjoying a comforting meal packed with protein and flavor feels pretty good, right?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
Flavor-packed with perfectly seasoned chicken and creamy queso.
Comforting and satisfying, perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings.
One-pan wonder for easy cleanup—less mess, more fun!
Customizable to your liking—add your favorite veggies or spices!
A crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Pollo Loco is a total hit! First off, don’t be afraid to adjust the taco seasoning to your taste. If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne or diced jalapeños! Trust me, a little kick goes a long way.
If you’re short on time, using leftover chicken is a game-changer—just toss it in when you mix in the rice and tomatoes, and you’ll cut down on cooking time significantly. Also, feel free to swap out the diced tomatoes for a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor.
And remember, this dish is all about flexibility! Throw in some black beans or corn for added texture and nutrition. The more you play with it, the more you’ll make it your own. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations of Pollo Loco Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso
If you’re anything like me, you love to get creative in the kitchen! There are so many fun ways to switch up your Pollo Loco Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso. For starters, try adding different spices; a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin can really elevate the flavor. You could also experiment with fresh veggies—think bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn for a sweet crunch!
And let’s not forget about beans! Adding black beans or pinto beans not only boosts the protein but also gives it an extra heartiness that’s just delightful. If you’re looking for a lighter twist, swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless—so go ahead, make it your own, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my Pollo Loco Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso, I love to keep it simple yet delicious! A big bowl of crunchy tortilla chips is a must—you can scoop up all that cheesy goodness and add a little extra crunch. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime really complements the dish beautifully.
And don’t forget about a side of guacamole or salsa! They add that perfect zing and make your meal feel like a true fiesta. Trust me, these pairings will take your meal to the next level and have everyone raving!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No worries! Storing your Pollo Loco Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso is super easy. Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Trust me, it’s just as delicious the next day!
When it’s time to reheat, you can either pop it in the microwave for a quick fix or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat. If using the skillet, add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist—nobody likes dry rice! Stir it around until everything is heated through and that cheesy goodness comes back to life. Enjoy it again, and don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the second time around!
I share easy, flavorful recipes that make home cooking simple, fun, and totally satisfying. Let's get in the kitchen and create something delicious together!
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!