One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso

This One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner! With its creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken, this low-carb dish is ready in just 20 minutes. It’s not only kid-friendly but also versatile enough for meal prep or family gatherings. The standout feature of this recipe is its rich flavor combined with the ease of preparation, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy queso sauce is a hit with children, making it a great family dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize the spices or cheese to suit your family’s tastes.
• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy a delicious meal without compromising your keto lifestyle.
• One-Pan Cleanup: Minimize the mess in the kitchen with just one pan to wash!

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly and melting the cheese without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining spices quickly before adding them to your chicken.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: Helps in stirring and tossing ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the chicken too much.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes)

For the Spices

• 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

For the Queso Sauce

• 1 4-ounce can mild green chiles
• 1/4 cup heavy cream + more for thinning if needed
• 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1/2 cup white American cheese

How to Make One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso

Step 1: Combine Spices

Combine all of the spices in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the cubed chicken to the hot skillet.
– Sprinkle with the prepared spices.
– Toss to coat evenly on all sides.
– Brown the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.
– Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Queso Sauce

Reduce the heat to low.
– Add the green chiles, cream cheese, and heavy cream to the skillet.
– Gradually add shredded cheese in small increments (about 1/2 cup at a time).
– Continuously stir as the cheese melts until all has been added.
– If needed, add more heavy cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
– Toss everything together until well-coated with queso.
– Serve immediately for best flavor!

Enjoy your delicious One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso!

How to Serve One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso

One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso is a deliciously creamy dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Light and fluffy cauliflower rice makes an excellent base for the cheesy chicken. It absorbs flavors well and keeps the dish low-carb.

As Lettuce Wraps

• For a refreshing twist, serve the pollo con queso in large lettuce leaves. This option is crunchy and adds a fresh contrast to the creamy queso.

Over Zoodles

• Spiralized zucchini (zoodles) are a great low-carb alternative to pasta. They pair wonderfully with the rich queso sauce and make for a hearty meal.

With Avocado Slices

• Adding slices of fresh avocado on top adds creaminess and healthy fats. It also brightens up the dish visually.

With Salsa Verde

• A drizzle of salsa verde on top offers a zesty kick that complements the cheesy chicken. The acidity balances out the richness of the dish.

Topped with Fresh Cilantro

• Garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. This herb adds flavor and color, making your plate more appealing.

How to Perfect One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso

To make sure your One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and cheese will provide the best flavor and texture, ensuring your dish is as tasty as possible.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spice mix according to your taste preferences. Feel free to add more chili powder if you like it spicier.

• Monitor Cheese Melting: Stir continuously while adding cheese in increments. This ensures it melts evenly without clumping together.

• Thinning Options: If your queso gets too thick, don’t hesitate to add more heavy cream or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked until no longer pink inside for both safety and optimal texture.

• Experiment with Cheeses: You can use different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavor profiles in your dish.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso

Pairing sides with One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso can elevate your meal even further. Here are some delicious options that complement this main dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic and olive oil provide a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor.

2. Creamy Spinach Salad: A salad made with fresh spinach, avocado, and a creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.

3. Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned broccoli florets roasted until crispy make a nutritious side that fits well within keto guidelines.

4. Zucchini Chips: Baked zucchini chips add crunch while keeping carbs low—perfect for snacking alongside your meal.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with cheese and herbs offer color and flavor while providing additional nutrients.

6. Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and a touch of acidity that balances out the richness of the pollo con queso.

7. Riced Broccoli: Similar to cauliflower rice but with broccoli, this side adds fiber while staying low-carb and is easy to prepare.

8. Avocado Salad: A light avocado salad dressed simply with lime juice can brighten up your plate and add healthy fats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold chicken – Always start with chicken that is at room temperature. Cold chicken can cook unevenly and may result in longer cooking times.
• Skipping the spice mix – The spices are essential for flavor. Be sure to mix them well and coat the chicken evenly to enhance the dish’s taste.
• Overheating the cheese – High heat can cause cheese to become rubbery. Stir gently on low heat to achieve a creamy queso consistency.
• Not adjusting cream for consistency – If your queso is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more heavy cream or broth until you reach your desired texture.
• Ignoring meal prep potential – This dish is perfect for leftovers. Make extra so you can enjoy it throughout the week!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals, until warm.
• Stovetop – Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella for unique flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso is quick to prepare and stores well, making it perfect for meal prep.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is mild due to the use of mild green chiles. You can adjust the spice by using hotter chiles if desired.

What can I serve with One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso?

This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Keto Pollo Con Queso is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that your whole family will love. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. This versatility makes it a fantastic addition to any meal plan!