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Pollo Loco: Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso

Zesty Pollo Loco: Mexican Chicken and Rice with Cheesy Queso

Indulge in Pollo Loco: Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso, a vibrant dish rich in flavor, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 tsp adobo seasoning Can be replaced with taco seasoning.
For the Rice
  • 10 oz saffron yellow rice Regular yellow rice can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cube tomato bouillon Vegetable bouillon works for a vegetarian version.
For the Queso
  • 2 tsp olive oil Can be replaced with another cooking oil.
  • 2 tbsp milk Use plant-based milk for dairy-free options.
  • 3 oz white queso Queso blanco is recommended for authenticity.
Optional Garnishes
  • fresh cilantro Adds color and freshness.
  • diced tomatoes Use heirloom or vine-ripened for the best taste.
  • sliced jalapeños Can be adjusted according to your preference.

Equipment

  • nonstick pan
  • medium saucepan
  • Small saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 3 oz of white queso, 2 tsp of olive oil, and 2 tbsp of milk. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth, taking about 5 minutes.
  2. Slice 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with 1 tsp of adobo seasoning. In a nonstick pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a golden-brown exterior.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine 10 oz of saffron yellow rice, 1 tomato bouillon cube, and 2½ cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
  4. In a large serving dish, first layer the perfectly cooked saffron rice. Next, add the sautéed chicken on top of the rice. Finally, pour the warm queso over the chicken and rice, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
  5. Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños. Serve warm, ideally complemented with a side of guacamole or a refreshing Mexican-style salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This dish holds up well in storage. Reheat gently to maintain flavors.

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