Chicken Con Queso: A Deliciously Versatile Mexican Dip
If you’re on the hunt for a new favorite recipe that combines comfort and flavor, look no further than Chicken Con Queso. This dish is a savory blend of spiced chicken, creamy queso, and zesty salsa that will satisfy your cravings for Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re serving it as a dip or using it as a filling for tacos, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Con Queso Recipe
Chicken Con Queso is a dream for any Mexican food lover. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s almost foolproof and incredibly delicious. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Simplicity: With just twelve ingredients, this dish is straightforward to prepare.
- Versatility: It can be served as a dip with tortilla chips or as a filling for tacos or tortillas.
- Ease of Cooking: The recipe can be made in a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while it cooks.
“The real joy of cooking is making dishes that make people’s taste buds dance,” says culinary expert Maria Gomez. This Chicken Con Queso definitely lives up to that promise.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours on low or 2.5 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker
- Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Ingredients for Chicken Con Queso
You’ll Need:
- 1-1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can chopped green chiles, mild
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp fresh cilantro (optional)
- Tortilla chips or tortillas
Directions to Make Chicken Con Queso
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with diced jalapeno, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth over the top of the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and pour the liquid into a deep bowl. Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Create the Filling:
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the green chiles, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro (if using).
- Skim the fat from the liquid, measure out 1/2 cup of the liquid, and pour it into the slow cooker. Discard the remaining liquid.
- Cover and cook on low for 30 minutes or until everything is heated through.
- Serve:
- Spoon the Chicken Con Queso into the center of warm tortillas or serve as a dip with tortilla chips.
Expert Tips
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the jalapeno or use a mild salsa.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance and reheat it before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or a blend of your favorites.
Can this recipe be made on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through, then follow the rest of the steps to combine the ingredients.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra chopped jalapenos or use a hot salsa to increase the heat.
Want More Delicious Recipes?
Craving more scrumptious and healthy recipes? Dive into my Pinterest board for a treasure trove of culinary inspiration! And if you’re eager to make meal prep even simpler, don’t miss out on my cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens: 100 Easy Recipes to Learn the Basics. It’s brimming with quick, easy recipes designed to elevate your cooking game. Grab your copy today and start transforming your meals!
“Cooking is not just about the food; it’s about sharing moments with loved ones,” a sentiment that perfectly captures the essence of enjoying homemade meals like this Chicken Con Queso.
With these tips and the detailed recipe, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy!
Chicken Con Queso Recipe
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Chicken Con Queso! Perfect as a dip or taco filling, this easy slow-cooker recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can chopped green chiles, mild
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp fresh cilantro (optional)
- Tortilla chips or tortillas
Notes
Expert Tips
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the jalapeno or use a mild salsa.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance and reheat it before serving.