Tips

• Chicken Tips: Dark meat or white meat both work for the queso chicken and rice:
  • If chicken tenderloins are used, they will likely only need a total cooking time of 50 minutes covered plus 10 minutes uncovered.
  • Boneless chicken breasts or thighs will need the 1 hour covered plus 10-15 minutes uncovered. If your chicken breast or thigh is thicker than ½-inch, flatten it with a mallet or cut them in half horizontally. The USDA-safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F.
• Make with cooked chicken instead. Simply replace the raw chicken with cooked. Bake covered 35 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10-15 or until the mixture is bubbling at the edges, rice is tender, and cheese completely melted.
• To Sear or Not to Sear: If you want to sear the seasoned chicken first, go ahead! Searing the chicken will give it a bit of caramelized flavor. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and sear 1-2 minutes per side. Adjust the covered oven cook time to 35 to 45 minutes.
• Extra Flavor Options: This casserole is full of flavor, but a few additional ingredients you can add for extra flavor are minced garlic, sautéed chopped bell peppers, green chiles, and sautéed chopped yellow onions.
• Homemade Taco Seasoning: If you prefer a homemade taco seasoning, here is a substitute: 1 tablespoon chili powder, ½ tablespoon cumin, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper.
• Optional Toppings: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a pop of flavor. Fresh cilantro also adds great color and freshness! Extra cheese, sour cream, diced red onion, tortilla chips, and pretty much any of your favorite taco toppings would be an excellent addition!
• Have fun with other ingredients. Feel free to add chopped bell pepper as well as drained and rinsed black or pinto beans.