Name: Crock Pot Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492693H38M4S
Total time: PT-492693H38M4S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 (5.6 ounce) packs Knorr Spanish Rice; 14.5 ounce can chicken broth (low or no sodium preferred); 16 ounce jar Herdez mild salsa; 1/2 cup water; 1 ounce packet taco seasoning (low sodium recommended); 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend; ½ cup queso blanco dip, warmed; Fresh cilantro or fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Introduction

This Crock Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken thighs, zesty salsa, and a comforting blend of cheese and rice, it’s sure to please the whole family.

This image shows a serving of spicy fried chicken pieces drenched in a creamy white sauce, placed on a white textured plate that sits on top of two more stacked white plates. The chicken is golden brown with a crunchy texture and is garnished lightly with chopped green herbs. In the background, two lime halves and a lime wedge add a fresh, green color contrast, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 (5.6 ounce) packs Knorr Spanish Rice

14.5 ounce can chicken broth (low or no sodium recommended)
16 ounce jar Herdez mild salsa

1/2 cup water
1 ounce packet taco seasoning (low sodium recommended)

1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
½ cup queso blanco dip, warmed
Fresh cilantro or fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a 5-6 quart slow cooker, combine the chicken pieces, Knorr Spanish Rice packets, chicken broth, mild salsa, water, and taco seasoning. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 2: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the rice is tender.
Step 3: Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine flavors evenly.

Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the dish, cover, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
Step 5: Drizzle the warmed queso blanco dip on top just before serving for extra creaminess.
Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid dryness.
For a spicier kick, swap mild salsa with medium or hot salsa according to your taste.
Add a can of drained black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.

If you don’t have queso blanco dip, a good melting cheese like Monterey Jack can be a tasty substitute.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the rice seems dry.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white crockpot filled with a cheesy, layered dish. The top layer is melted golden yellow cheddar cheese with some white cheese melted on top, showing smooth and stretchy textures. Underneath, there are reddish-brown cooked rice grains mixed with small pieces of meat, topped with small green herbs scattered around. A blue spoon is scooping a portion from the pot, lifting the cheesy rice layers, showing the gooey, creamy texture of the cheese blending into the rice. The background shows a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken thighs in this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken thighs to ensure even cooking and food safety. If using frozen, cook on high for longer and check the internal temperature carefully.

Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, you can combine all ingredients in a large pot or deep skillet, cover, and simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender, stirring occasionally. Adjust liquids and cooking time as needed.