Queso Smothered Chicken – Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Queso Smothered Chicken, a dish that combines tender grilled chicken, savory orzo, and a delectable cheese dip. This recipe is a fusion of smoky chipotle marinade, zesty Southwest seasoning, and creamy Velveeta cheese. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress and become a family favorite.
Every now and then, we stumble upon a recipe that completely captures our hearts. For me, it was the Queso Smothered Chicken. I still remember the first time I made it for my husband and little family. As the aroma of the marinated chicken filled the air, everyone gathered around the grill, eagerly waiting for dinner. The moment we took our first bite, our taste buds were greeted with a burst of smoky, tangy, and cheesy flavors. It was an instant hit! Since then, this recipe has become a regular in our household. It’s our go-to dish for special occasions, weekend gatherings, and even cozy weeknight dinners. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own cherished memories around this incredible recipe.
Why This Queso Smothered Chicken Recipe Will Win Your Heart?
- A perfect blend of smoky and zesty flavors: The chicken is marinated in Lawry’s Baja Chipotle marinade, infusing it with a delightful smokiness that pairs perfectly with the zesty Southwest seasoning.
- Creamy Velveeta cheese dip: The addition of diced tomatoes and green chilies to melted Velveeta creates a rich and creamy queso dip that takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Easy and versatile: This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Plus, you can easily customize the flavors by adjusting the spice level or adding your favorite ingredients.
- Quick marinade: With Lawry’s Baja Chipotle 30-minute marinade, you can achieve incredible flavor in a short amount of time, making it perfect for those busy days when you want a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (approximately 355 ml) Lawry’s Baja Chipotle 30-minute marinade or Mesquite
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 225 grams (8 ounces) orzo
- 480 ml (2 cups) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Southwest seasoning or chili powder
- 225 grams (8 ounces) Velveeta cheese, diced
- 283 grams (10 ounces) canned diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
Directions:
Pour Lawry’s Baja Chipotle marinade over the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight. When ready, grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the orzo. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the orzo. Cook, stirring constantly, until it turns lightly browned. Stir in the Southwest seasoning or chili powder, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Fluff it with a fork.
In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained) with the diced Velveeta cheese. Heat the mixture on high in the microwave in 30-second intervals until the cheese is melted and creamy.
To assemble the Queso Smothered Chicken, place ¼ of the orzo on a plate and top it with a grilled chicken breast. Pour 3-4 tablespoons of the cheese dip over the chicken and orzo.
Notes:
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice in the dish by adding more or less Southwest seasoning or chili powder.
- If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can substitute the Velveeta with your favorite meltable cheese.
- This recipe is also great with alternative proteins like grilled shrimp or beef.
- Serve the Queso Smothered Chicken with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to complement the flavors.
In conclusion, Queso Smothered Chicken is a recipe that combines bold flavors, comforting textures, and a touch of cheesiness. From the tantalizing smokiness of the chipotle marinade to the creamy Velveeta cheese dip, every bite is a celebration of taste. This dish has the power to transform an ordinary meal into a memorable experience shared with family and friends.
Whether you’re planning a weekend gathering, a cozy dinner for two, or simply seeking a delicious and easy-to-make meal, Queso Smothered Chicken fits the bill perfectly. Its versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to your liking, whether you prefer it spicier or milder. The combination of grilled chicken, flavorful orzo, and velvety cheese dip is a winning formula that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
So, why wait? Fire up the grill, marinate your chicken in the smoky goodness of Lawry’s Baja Chipotle marinade, and prepare to embark on a flavor adventure. The Queso Smothered Chicken recipe is your ticket to a delightful dining experience that will leave you craving for seconds. Share it with your loved ones, create memories around the table, and let this dish become a staple in your own culinary repertoire.
Get ready to savor the irresistible combination of tender chicken, aromatic orzo, and indulgent queso. Give this recipe a try and be prepared to be blown away by its incredible taste and the joy it brings to your taste buds. Queso Smothered Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures and enjoy the company of those you hold dear.
FAQs
Can I use a different marinade for the chicken?
Absolutely! While Lawry’s Baja Chipotle or Mesquite marinades add a unique flavor profile, you can experiment with other marinades that suit your taste preferences.
Can I make the cheese dip on the stovetop instead of the microwave?
Yes, you can melt the Velveeta and combine it with the diced tomatoes and green chilies in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the cheese is melted and the dip is smooth.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the orzo.
Can I prepare the orzo in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just make sure to fluff it with a fork and add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to prevent it from drying out.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and orzo separately to maintain their textures.
Queso Smothered Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 bottle approximately 355 ml Lawry's Baja Chipotle 30-minute marinade or Mesquite
- 4 boneless chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 225 grams 8 ounces orzo
- 480 ml 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Southwest seasoning or chili powder
- 225 grams 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, diced
- 283 grams 10 ounces canned diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
Instructions
- Pour Lawry's Baja Chipotle marinade over the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight. When ready, grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the orzo. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the orzo. Cook, stirring constantly, until it turns lightly browned. Stir in the Southwest seasoning or chili powder, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Fluff it with a fork.
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained) with the diced Velveeta cheese. Heat the mixture on high in the microwave in 30-second intervals until the cheese is melted and creamy.
- To assemble the Queso Smothered Chicken, place ¼ of the orzo on a plate and top it with a grilled chicken breast. Pour 3-4 tablespoons of the cheese dip over the chicken and orzo.
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