If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Ultimate Cheesy Queso Dinner Recipe. With its rich, creamy texture and irresistible cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for a cozy night in, it combines simple ingredients to create a satisfying feast that everyone will love. Get ready to dig into a delightful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Steps
- Begin by peeling, washing, and dicing the potatoes into cubes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until they are evenly coated.
- Cook the seasoned potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking them occasionally. Alternatively, bake them in the oven at the same temperature for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- While the potatoes cook, cut the chicken breast into small pieces and heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add butter to the skillet, let it melt, then add the chicken. Season with salt, cayenne, chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried cilantro, and black pepper, stirring until well mixed.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is thoroughly cooked through.
- Once the potatoes and chicken are ready, combine them in the skillet. Warm the queso in the microwave, then pour it over the chicken and potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, top each serving with Pico de Gallo, and enjoy your meal.
Ingredients
- 5 small to medium-sized potatoes
- Olive oil (for coating potatoes)
- Salt (for seasoning potatoes and chicken)
- Pepper (for seasoning potatoes and chicken)
- Garlic powder (for seasoning potatoes)
- Paprika (for seasoning potatoes and chicken)
- 1 pound of chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
- 10 ounces of white queso
- Pico de Gallo
- Fresh cilantro
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of white queso?
- Yes, you can substitute white queso with a homemade cheese sauce or use shredded cheese if you prefer. However, the white queso adds a creamy texture that complements the dish well.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer?
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the potatoes in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
- Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
- Absolutely, one pound of ground beef can be used as an alternative to chicken in this recipe.
- Do I have to use russet potatoes?
- No, while russet potatoes are recommended due to their availability and texture, you can use other types of potatoes based on your preference or what you have at hand.
- Is it possible to use store-bought Pico de Gallo instead of making it at home?
- Yes, you can use either homemade or store-bought Pico de Gallo, depending on your convenience and preference.
- What brands of queso do you recommend?
- The recipe suggests using Queso-Melt Original or Pancho’s Queso, which can be found at places like Sam’s Club.
Tips
- Alternative Protein Option: Although the recipe calls for one pound of chicken breast, you could substitute it with ground beef for a different flavor and texture.
- Cooking Potatoes Without an Air Fryer: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the potatoes in the oven at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir them halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.
- Queso Choices: Opt for store-bought white queso, such as Queso-Melt Original or Pancho’s from Sam’s Club, or make a homemade version if you prefer. Shredded cheese can also be used as an alternative.
- Pico de Gallo Options: Enhance the dish with homemade Pico de Gallo, but store-bought can also work well if you’re short on time.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – If you do not already own one, this recipe utilizes an air fryer to cook the potatoes.
- Meat Thermometer – Useful for ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
- Large Skillet – While many people may have a skillet, you might need a larger one if you’re combining all ingredients in one pan.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl – For warming the Queso if you don’t have one already.
