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Pollo Loco -Mexican Chicken And Rice With Queso Recipe

Pollo Loco -Mexican Chicken And Rice With Queso Recipe


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4.5 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling Pollo Loco brings spicy Mexican charm to your dinner table, blending tender chicken and creamy queso over fluffy rice. Zesty flavors dance together, promising a delightful culinary journey you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) uncooked boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into small bite-size pieces
  • 1 teaspoon Goya Adobo Seasoning

Grains and Base:

  • 1 10-ounce (283 grams) package Vigo Saffron Yellow Rice (Arroz Amarillo)
  • 1 cube Knorr Tomato Bouillon (optional)
  • 2.5 cups water

Finishing and Preparation Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 3 ounces (85 grams) White Queso Dip
  • 2 tablespoons milk (skim, 1%, 2%, or whole)
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Carefully blot chicken pieces with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then generously massage adobo seasoning across entire surface of the meat.
  2. Warm olive oil in a spacious dutch oven or deep skillet with a secure lid over medium-high temperature.
  3. Carefully introduce seasoned chicken pieces into the heated pan, allowing them to sear and develop a golden-brown exterior. Cook undisturbed for approximately 3-4 minutes on the first side.
  4. Rotate chicken pieces to ensure even browning, continuing to cook until completely opaque and lightly caramelized.
  5. Gently crumble tomato bouillon directly into the pan, then add rice and appropriate water volume. Stir ingredients thoroughly to distribute seasoning evenly.
  6. Increase heat momentarily to bring liquid to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce temperature to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
  7. Allow mixture to simmer quietly for 20-25 minutes, resisting the urge to lift the lid frequently. Rice should absorb liquid and become tender.
  8. Once rice reaches perfect consistency, remove from heat and fold in queso and milk, using a fork to create a light, fluffy texture.
  9. Transfer to serving dishes immediately while still steaming hot, ensuring each portion receives an equal blend of chicken, rice, and creamy queso.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure better browning and crispy texture.
  • Use high-quality adobo seasoning for deeper, more authentic Mexican flavor profile.
  • Crush tomato bouillon thoroughly to distribute flavor evenly throughout the dish.
  • Break rice grains while stirring to prevent clumping and achieve perfect consistency.
  • Let dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together completely.
  • Substitute lactose-free milk and vegan queso for dairy-sensitive diets.
  • Consider adding fresh cilantro or green onions as a bright, fresh garnish before serving.
  • For extra protein, mix in black beans or diced bell peppers during rice cooking stage.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 53 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg