How to make pollo con queso, a popular Mexican chicken and cheese dish?

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Introduction: Pollo con Queso

Pollo con queso is a popular Mexican dish that consists of chicken and cheese. This classic dish is flavorful and easy to make, making it a great option for dinner parties or family dinners. Different versions of the dish exist, but most commonly, it involves chicken breasts that are cooked and served with a creamy and cheesy sauce. The dish is often served with rice, beans, or tortillas.

Ingredients for Pollo con Queso

The ingredients needed for pollo con queso include:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Most of the ingredients are readily available in grocery stores. You can use boneless or bone-in chicken breasts, and it is better to use fresh cilantro for the recipe.

Preparation: Cooking the Chicken

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
  4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, for about 1 minute.
  2. Add chicken broth and heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  4. Add chopped cilantro and stir.

Combining the Chicken and Cheese Sauce

  1. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken breasts.
  2. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden brown.

Tips for Making Pollo con Queso

  • Use boneless chicken breasts for a quicker cooking time.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking cheese.

Serving Pollo con Queso

Pollo con queso can be served with rice, beans, or tortillas. You can also add some extra toppings like sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or sour cream for a more flavorful experience.

Variations of Pollo con Queso

  • Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  • Use different types of cheese like queso fresco or blue cheese for a unique flavor.
  • Substitute chicken with beef or shrimp for a different protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long can I store the leftover pollo con queso?
A: You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze pollo con queso?
A: Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Conclusion: Enjoying Pollo con Queso

Pollo con queso is a delicious and flavorful dish that is easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that your family and friends will love. Experiment with different cheeses and spices to make the dish your own, and enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Recipe for Pollo con Queso

  • Season 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Brown the chicken breasts on both sides, about 5 minutes.
  • Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and roast for 20-25 minutes at 375°F.
  • In the same skillet, sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant, for about 1 minute.
  • Add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  • Add 1/4 cup of fresh chopped cilantro and stir.
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken breasts.
  • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden brown.

References and Resources

  • Pollo Con Queso Recipe. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.food.com/recipe/pollo-con-queso-297210
  • Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce (Pollo Con Queso). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.everydaymaven.com/mexican-chicken-cheese-sauce-pollo-con-queso/
  • Pollo con Queso – Mexican Style Chicken with Cheese Sauce. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.curiouscuisiniere.com/pollo-con-queso-mexican-style-chicken-with-cheese-sauce/

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Elise DeVoe

Elise is a seasoned food writer with seven years of experience. Her culinary journey began as Managing Editor at the College of Charleston for Spoon University, the ultimate resource for college foodies. After graduating, she launched her blog, Cookin’ with Booze, which has now transformed into captivating short-form videos on TikTok and Instagram, offering insider tips for savoring Charleston’s local cuisine.

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