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One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso Recipe

4.7 from 138 reviews

This flavorful One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso is a creamy, cheesy chicken dish perfect for those following a low-carb, keto lifestyle. Tender chicken breast is seasoned with a vibrant blend of chili powder, paprika, and cumin, then cooked in a skillet and combined with a rich queso sauce made from cream cheese, pepper jack, and American cheese, along with mild green chiles for a subtle kick. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting meal is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing taste or simplicity.

Ingredients

Scale

Spices and Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 4-ounce can mild green chiles
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (plus more for thinning if needed)
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup white American cheese

Instructions

  1. Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside to create a flavorful seasoning blend for the chicken.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and sprinkle evenly with the spice blend. Toss the chicken to coat thoroughly and brown it for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden.
  3. Prepare the Queso Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the mild green chiles, softened cream cheese, and 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Gradually add the shredded pepper jack and white American cheese in small increments (about 1/2 cup at a time), stirring continuously as the cheese melts. Add extra heavy cream if needed until the queso reaches your desired creamy consistency.
  4. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to coat it evenly in the creamy queso sauce. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors at their best.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, substitute mild green chiles for roasted jalapeños or add extra chili powder.
  • Use full-fat cheeses and cream for best keto-friendly results and creamy texture.
  • If queso sauce is too thick, thin it with a little more heavy cream to reach your preferred consistency.
  • Save time by using pre-cubed chicken breasts or leftover cooked chicken.
  • Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables to keep it keto-friendly and balanced.

Keywords: keto chicken recipe, pollo con queso, keto dinner, low carb chicken, creamy chicken queso, skillet dinner