Imagine a plate brimming with vibrant Mexican flavors, where tender chicken dances with zesty spices, and creamy queso drizzles down like a delicious waterfall. savory chicken linguine dish Your taste buds are about to embark on an unforgettable journey with Pollo Loco, a dish that promises joy in every bite.

This delightful Mexican chicken rice with queso is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner when you need a burst of flavor to brighten your day. Let me take you back to the first time I made this recipe; let’s just say there were happy dance moves involved when my friends devoured it, and I was crowned the “Queen of Flavor Town” that evening. cheesy stuffed flank steak recipe taco stuffed shells recipe delicious taco bowl recipe. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.

I remember the first time I served this dish; my cousin declared it “life-changing,” which was quite the compliment from a self-proclaimed foodie.

this recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for juicy results; they cook evenly and absorb flavors beautifully.

• Long-Grain Rice: Choose long-grain rice for fluffiness; it pairs perfectly with the saucy chicken and queso.

• Fresh Bell Peppers: Opt for vibrant red or yellow peppers; they add sweetness and color to your dish.

• Onion: A medium onion brings sweetness and depth; sauté until it’s soft and translucent for the best flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they offer an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks.

• Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices give warmth and depth; don’t skimp on them if you love bold flavors!

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

• Queso Blanco or Cheddar Cheese: Melted on top, this cheese adds creaminess; choose your favorite to personalize the flavor.

• Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro brightens everything up; sprinkle generously for that fresh finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Chicken: Begin by dicing your boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.

Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onions until they turn translucent and fragrant. Toss in chopped bell peppers next.

Add Chicken: Increase heat slightly and add seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until they turn golden brown on all sides, around 5-7 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth: Stir in rinsed rice until it’s coated in the flavorful oil. Pour in chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle boil before covering it tightly.

Simmer Until Cooked: Lower the heat and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice absorbs all liquid. The kitchen should smell heavenly at this point!

Melt Queso: Once done, remove from heat and drizzle melted queso over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle fresh cilantro before serving.

Now you’ve created this magical Pollo Loco dish that not only warms hearts but also fills stomachs! Serve hot with extra cheese on top because you deserve it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in flavors, then cook the rice while preparing the queso for efficiency. For more inspiration, check out this street corn chicken rice bowl recipe.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding black beans or corn for added texture and flavor. You can also use different cheeses for a unique twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave to maintain quality.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of that time I made Pollo Loco for a friend’s birthday. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar that night!

FAQ

What can I use instead of chicken?

Try substituting turkey or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

How spicy is Pollo Loco?

The spice level varies; adjust chilies based on your heat preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day early; just reheat before serving.

Print

Pollo Loco

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Hellen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Pollo Loco is a vibrant Mexican dish featuring tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy queso that creates an explosion of flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe will have everyone raving and reaching for seconds. With easy-to-follow instructions and essential ingredients, you’ll impress your guests and elevate your cooking game with this delightful dish.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 cup diced red or yellow bell peppers
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup queso blanco or cheddar cheese, melted
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté the onion until translucent; add bell peppers.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in rinsed rice until coated in oil; pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover tightly.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Drizzle melted queso over the top before serving; garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg