Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe

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There is nothing quite as comforting and downright delicious as a Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe blends tender, well-seasoned chicken with fluffy, flavorful rice and a luscious, creamy cheese sauce that brings everything together into one unforgettable meal. Whether you want a crowd-pleasing dinner or a satisfying weekday treat, this dish delivers in every bite with vibrant colors, rich textures, and bold flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe just right begins with simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures, from the tender chicken and savory rice to the creamy, cheesy sauce that ties it all together.

• 2 cups rice: The base of the dish, absorbing all the delicious tomato and seasoning flavors.
• 2 tbsp cooking oil: For sautéing and ensuring a crispy, golden touch on chicken and onions.
• 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
• 1 tbsp minced garlic: Brings aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning: A vibrant seasoning mix that gives a colorful, flavorful punch to the rice and chicken.
• 1 tbsp chicken-flavored bouillon: Boosts the savory undertones in the rice.
• 16 oz tomato sauce: Gives the rice a slight tang and bold color.
• 4 cups water or chicken broth: The cooking liquid that hydrates the rice while adding extra flavor.
• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken: The hearty protein star of the plate.
• 2 tbsp butter: Ensures the chicken cooks up rich and golden.
• 1 tbsp each: garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder: These spices build a layered, smoky, and savory chicken coating.
• 1 tbsp cumin: Adds earthy warmth perfect for that southwestern flair.
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning: Used again to season the chicken for cohesion across the dish.
• 1 tsp salt & pepper: Basic seasoning to balance flavors perfectly.
• 12 oz can evaporated milk: The creamy base for the luscious cheese sauce.
• 16 oz Queso Blanco Velveeta: Melts beautifully into a smooth, dreamy sauce.
• 7 oz can diced chilis: Adds a subtle spicy kick and texture to the cheese sauce.
• 8 oz grated pepper jack cheese: Provides melty, spicy depth to the cheese sauce finish.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe

Step 1: Make the Rice

Start by heating the cooking oil in a large pot and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they’re soft, fragrant, and just starting to brown. Next, sprinkle in the Sazon seasoning and chicken-flavored bouillon, followed by the tomato sauce to give the rice its signature rich color and taste. Then pour in your choice of water or chicken broth, which will cook the rice to fluffy perfection. Stir in the rice, bring everything to a vigorous boil, cover the pot, and lower to a simmer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the rice is simmering, it’s time to season the chicken. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, the second packet of Sazon, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then toss your boneless, skinless chicken in this spice rub until fully coated. Heat butter and cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken pieces. Cook them until the outsides are a gorgeous golden brown and the inside is juicy and fully cooked. Once done, slice or shred the chicken so it’s ready to layer on top of the rice later.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Now for the real indulgence: the cheese sauce. In a medium pot over medium heat, gently warm the evaporated milk until it just starts to bubble. Add chunks of Queso Blanco Velveeta and stir continuously until it is completely melted and smooth. Fold in the diced chilis—giving the sauce both a creamy texture and a slight heat—and finally stir in the grated pepper jack cheese for a spicy, melty finish that’s downright irresistible.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe

To serve, spoon a generous portion of that vibrant, savory rice onto your plate. Top it with sliced or shredded chicken, and then lavish the entire plate with the creamy cheese sauce. The sauce will cascade over the chicken and rice, creating a dish that’s inviting, comforting, and packed with personality in every bite.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the flavors and add a fresh note, sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top just before serving. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright contrast to the richness of the cheese sauce, and for those who love a little extra heat, thin slices of fresh jalapeño are a perfect welcome touch.

Side Dishes

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a simple side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad can provide a refreshing balance. You might also enjoy some warm tortillas on the side to scoop up every last bit of that cheesy goodness or a bowl of black beans to complement the southwestern flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of extra pepper jack cheese melting on top just before serving. Layering the chicken and cheese sauce visually over the rice on a colorful plate turns this humble dish into a vibrant crowd-pleaser. You could even serve it family-style in a large casserole dish, letting everyone dive in and pass around the joy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the rice and chicken separately from the cheese sauce to preserve texture and flavor. Use airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

Freezing

If you want to save this incredible dish for longer, freeze the rice and cooked chicken in portions but hold off on freezing the cheese sauce on its own, as it can separate. When ready to enjoy, thaw everything overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding freshly melted cheese sauce if needed.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the rice and chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Slowly reheat the cheese sauce on the stove, stirring frequently until smooth and creamy again. Then assemble and serve for a second-round feast just as delightful as the first.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture to the dish, but keep in mind it will require more cooking time and liquid, so adjust accordingly to ensure it becomes tender.

What can I substitute for Queso Blanco Velveeta?

If you can’t find Queso Blanco Velveeta, try using another mild melting cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella mixed with some mild cheddar for similar creaminess and meltability.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level is mild and approachable thanks to the diced chilis and chili powder, but it’s easily adjustable by adding more chilis or extra chili powder if you love a fiery kick.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To turn it vegetarian, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep all those deep, comforting flavors.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

The easiest way to shred chicken after it’s cooked is to use two forks to pull it apart into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can pulse it a few times in a food processor for a finer texture but be careful not to overdo it.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Plate Recipe feels like sharing a little piece of happiness. Every element works in harmony to create a meal that’s wholesome, indulgent, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and find yourself coming back to it again and again as a new favorite in your recipe box.

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