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Homemade Queso Smothered Chicken photo

Queso Smothered Chicken

This Queso Smothered Chicken is a cozy one-pan meal bursting with flavor! Tender chicken, creamy queso, and orzo make for a perfect dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bottle Lawry's Baja Chipotle marinade
  • 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tsp Southwest seasoning or chili powder
  • 1 8-oz package Velveeta diced
  • 1 10-oz can diced tomatoes and green chilies undrained

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Meat Mallet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Start by marinating the boneless chicken breasts in Lawry's Baja Chipotle marinade for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast it for about 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the orzo to cook for about 10-12 minutes until tender.
  4. In another skillet over medium-high heat, remove the chicken from the marinade and sear it for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. In the skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the tomato paste and Southwest seasoning. Stir for a minute, then add the diced tomatoes and green chilies along with the Velveeta.
  6. Once the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy, add the cooked orzo to the queso mixture and stir well to combine.
  7. Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it over the orzo and queso. Spoon extra queso over the top and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute orzo with quinoa or gluten-free pasta.