Name: Savor the Best Pollo Con Queso: A Quick Keto Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Consider avocado oil for a higher smoke point.); 1 pound Chicken Breast (Cut into bite-sized cubes.); 1 tablespoon Chili Powder (Cayenne or paprika can be used as a substitute.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Smoked paprika adds a deeper taste.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic is an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Fresh chopped onions can be used.); 1 teaspoon Cumin (Feel free to omit if not available.); 1 teaspoon Oregano (Dried Italian herbs can substitute.); to taste Salt and Pepper (Adjust to suit your preferences.); 1 can Mild Green Chiles (Jalapeños can spice things up.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Opt for light cream if desired.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat substitute.); 1 cup Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese (Use cheddar for a different flavor.); 4 ounces White American Cheese (More pepper jack or a mild cheddar can work.)

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Some nights in the kitchen feel like a culinary challenge, don’t they? Picture this: it’s a hectic weekday evening, and the last thing on your mind is whipping up an elaborate dinner. Enter my One-Pan Keto Pollo con Queso—a dish that’s here to save the day! In just 20 minutes, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a comforting feast that brings vibrant Mexican flavors right to your table.

The moment you add tender chicken to the skillet, the aroma fills the air, promising warmth and satisfaction. Toss in a luscious creamy cheese sauce, and watch as it envelops each piece, resulting in a flavorful delight everyone will enjoy. Not only is this meal keto-friendly and low in carbs, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy families or anyone craving homemade goodness without the fuss of fast food.

Join me in discovering how to create this heartwarming dish that turns any average dinner into a delicious celebration!

Why is Pollo Con Queso a Must-Try?

Quick Cooking: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when time is tight.
One-Pan Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans—this recipe minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Low-Carb Delight: Ideal for keto enthusiasts, each serving clocks in at only 2.8 net carbs!
Versatile Options: Make it your own by swapping in ground turkey or adding some veggies for extra crunch. If you’re in the mood for something sweet after dinner, try pairing it with a Samoa Cheesecake Coconut.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich, creamy sauce combined with tender chicken guarantees that this one-pan dish will be a hit at your dining table.

Pollo Con Queso Ingredients

Get ready to whip up a delightful dish with these simple yet essential ingredients!

For the Chicken
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing the chicken; consider avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
• Chicken Breast – Cut into bite-sized cubes for quick cooking; thighs offer more flavor and juiciness.

For the Spice Mix
• Chili Powder – Infuses warmth and spice; cayenne or paprika can be used as a substitute for varying heat.
• Paprika – Enhances color and flavor; smoked paprika adds a deeper, richer taste.
• Garlic Powder – Provides savory depth; fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile.
• Onion Powder – Adds a sweetness; fresh chopped onions can be sautéed with the chicken for a richer taste.
• Cumin – Contributes an earthy undertone; feel free to omit if you don’t have it handy.
• Oregano – Delivers a herby flavor; dried Italian herbs can be a delightful alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to suit your taste preferences.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Mild Green Chiles – Offers a touch of acidity and gentle heat; jalapeños can spice things up if desired.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious sauce; opt for light cream if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Cream Cheese – Adds creamy texture; Neufchâtel cheese is a great lower-fat substitute.
• Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese – Infuses additional flavor and creaminess; use cheddar if you’re in the mood for something different.
• White American Cheese – Ensures a velvety sauce; more pepper jack or a mild cheddar can work as a substitute.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a drool-worthy Pollo con Queso that’s sure to impress!

How to Make Pollo Con Queso

Prepare Spices: Start by combining all your spices—chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper—into a small bowl. This two-minute prep ensures a flavorful mix that’s ready to enhance your chicken!
Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with your spice mix. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once ready, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Make Queso Sauce: Lower the heat, then add the mild green chiles, cream cheese, and heavy cream to the same skillet. Stir continuously to combine until you create a smooth and creamy sauce. Gradually add in the shredded pepper jack cheese, stirring until melted. If needed, adjust the thickness with more cream or milk.
Combine & Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce until evenly coated. Serve it warm, and enjoy the dreamy blend of flavors right away!

Optional: Garnish with avocado or diced tomatoes for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with One-Pan Keto Pollo con Queso?

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that complement the rich, creamy goodness of this one-pan wonder.

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb dish adds a refreshing zest, balancing the creaminess while keeping everything keto-friendly.
Garlicky Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide a satisfying crunch and a hint of earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cheese sauce.

For an extra layer of flavor, try sautéing the green beans with some sliced almonds. The nuttiness complements the dish’s richness perfectly.

Spicy Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned with chili flakes and olive oil, roasted broccoli adds a delightful spice and char that enhances the Pollo con Queso experience.
Avocado Salad: A fresh salad with creamy avocado, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette offers a cooling contrast to the warm, cheesy chicken.

Consider adding diced tomatoes and a squeeze of lime for brightness. This fresh element makes each bite feel like a celebration!

Low-Carb Tortillas: These are perfect for scooping up the cheesy chicken, allowing you to savor every creamy morsel without derailing your keto plans.
Keto Margaritas: Sip a refreshing keto margarita while enjoying your Pollo con Queso for a delightful pairing that keeps the meal festive and enjoyable.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Keto Pollo con Queso are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and spice mix up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. You can also pre-make the creamy queso sauce, storing it for up to 3 days in the fridge—just let it cool before covering it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring often to maintain that luscious consistency. Add the cooked chicken back in to warm, and in just minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal that tastes just as satisfying as if you made it fresh!

Expert Tips for Pollo Con Queso

Even Cuts Matter: Ensure the chicken is cut into evenly-sized cubes to guarantee consistent cooking throughout.
Watch the Sauce: For a thinner queso sauce, gradually stir in more cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency—this helps avoid a gloopy texture.
Stir Constantly: When melting the cheese, keep stirring to prevent clumps from forming and to achieve that smooth, creamy finish for your Pollo Con Queso.
Reheat Wisely: This dish reheats beautifully! Gently warm it in a skillet to preserve the creamy texture, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Meal Prep Friendly: Consider making a double batch for busy nights; this dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making dinner planning a breeze!

Pollo Con Queso Variations & Substitutions

Customize your One-Pan Keto Pollo con Queso to fit your tastes and dietary needs with these fun and flavorful twists!

Meat Swap: Replace chicken with ground turkey or beef for a different protein profile that still triumphs in flavor.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed bell peppers or zucchini to add color and crunch, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Spice It Up: Upgrade the heat by substituting the mild green chiles with diced jalapeños for a fiery kick that spicy lovers will adore.
Creamy Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist that lightens the dish while keeping it creamy.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique melting experience; they both melt beautifully!
Low-Carb Sides: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep it low-carb while adding some extra veggies to your meal.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh cilantro or chives before serving for an herbal note that brightens the rich flavors of the dish.
Sweet Addition: Consider adding a spoonful of sweet corn or diced tomatoes for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.

How to Store and Freeze Pollo Con Queso

Fridge: Store your Pollo con Queso in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, just reheat it in a skillet, stirring occasionally.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal texture.

Reheating: When reheating, do it gently over low heat to avoid separation of the cheese sauce. Add a splash of cream or milk as needed to restore creaminess.

Meal Prep: Consider cooking a double batch for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week—this comforting dish makes meal planning delightful!

Pollo Con Queso Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for Pollo Con Queso?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, while breasts will cook quickly. Look for chicken that’s firm and has no dark spots—fresh is usually best!

How do I store leftover Pollo Con Queso?
You can store leftover Pollo con Queso in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat while stirring to prevent any separation of the sauce. Adding a splash of cream or milk while reheating helps restore that creamy texture.

Can I freeze Pollo Con Queso?
Absolutely, you can freeze Pollo con Queso! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To ensure the best quality, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready, warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream if necessary to maintain creaminess.

What can I do if my cheese sauce is clumpy?
If your cheese sauce becomes clumpy, don’t worry! Simply lower the heat and add a small splash of heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly until smooth. If needed, you can use an immersion blender for a super creamy texture—just blend slowly to avoid splatters.

Is Pollo Con Queso suitable for specific diets?
Yes! Pollo con Queso is a fantastic option for those following a keto or low-carb diet since each serving contains only about 2.8 net carbs. If you have a dairy allergy, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Very! I often add sautéed bell peppers or jalapeños for a bit of extra crunch and flavor. You can also serve it alongside a bed of fresh spinach or a side of cilantro lime cauliflower rice for a well-rounded meal. The more the merrier!