Name: Easy Baked Queso Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 chicken breasts (about 2 lb); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp chili seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil (I use Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil); 2 cups cheese sauce (I use Tostitos Medium Con Queso); 1 medium onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces); 1 medium tomato (finely diced for best texture); 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (finely chopped); 1 diced jalapeño (for extra heat)

Ingredients

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

1 tbsp olive oil (divided)

4 chicken breasts (about 2 lb)

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp chili seasoning

2 cups cheese sauce (such as Tostitos Medium Con Queso)

1 medium onion, diced (1/2-inch pieces)

1 medium tomato, finely diced

1 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 1 diced jalapeño (for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the oven rack on the top shelf. In a large Ziploc bag, combine chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, cumin, chili seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag after pressing out excess air and massage the seasoning evenly into the chicken. Marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge for best flavor.

Step 2: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken breasts and sear each side for 4-5 minutes until browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add diced onion, tomato, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften without burning.

Step 4: Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Top each breast with the sautéed vegetables, then evenly spread the cheese sauce over them. If you do not have a cast-iron skillet, transfer everything to a 9×13-inch casserole dish before baking. Bake on the top oven rack for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the queso turns golden brown.

Step 5: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot alongside cilantro lime rice, crusty bread, or pasta.

Tips & Variations

For extra spice, keep the jalapeño seeds or add hot sauce to the cheese sauce before baking.

If you prefer a milder dish, omit the chili seasoning and jalapeño.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely without drying out.

Substitute store-bought cheese sauce with homemade queso for a fresher taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay moist during cooking. Adjust the bake time slightly as thighs may need a few extra minutes to reach the proper internal temperature.

What can I serve with Easy Baked Queso Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with cilantro lime rice, warm tortillas, crusty bread, or simple pasta. A fresh green salad also complements the rich flavors nicely.