Name: Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 Knorr Spanish Rice or Mexican Rice packages; 3 cups Chicken broth; 15 ounces Salsa; 2-3 cups Cooked chicken, shredded or chopped; 2 tablespoons Taco seasoning; 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 1 jar Queso dip

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors, you are in for a treat with the Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe. This hearty, comforting casserole combines tender chicken, zesty salsa, and a rich queso dip all baked to perfection with savory Spanish rice. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers, promising layers of flavor and a satisfying texture with every spoonful.

Ingredients You'll Need

A glass baking dish filled with a three-layered casserole sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark reddish brown with visible chunks, likely a meat or bean mixture. The middle layer is a melted yellow-orange cheese spread evenly across the surface with a slightly bubbly texture. On top of the cheese, a creamy white sauce is being poured from a container held by a woman's hand, creating a thick pool in the center of the dish. The backdrop is a dark gray textured wall, contrasting with the bright food and the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of taste and texture. From savory seasonings to creamy cheese and the juiciness of chicken, your palate is in for a joyful experience.

Knorr Spanish Rice or Mexican Rice: Provides a flavorful and slightly spicy base that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Chicken broth: Adds rich depth and moisture to the rice, ensuring it cooks perfectly tender.
Salsa: Brings bright tomato and chili flavors that punch up the dish with a little tang and heat.
Cooked chicken: Adds hearty protein, making the meal both filling and nourishing.

Taco seasoning: Infuses everything with savory Mexican spices that elevate every bite.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the rice for a gooey, cheesy layer that’s pure comfort food bliss.
Queso dip: The creamy star of the dish, poured on top for the ultimate cheesy finish.

How to Make Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and to ensure easy serving later.

Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients

In the prepared dish, combine the Knorr Spanish rice or Mexican rice, chicken broth, salsa, taco seasoning, and cooked chicken. Use a sturdy spoon to gently stir everything together, making sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Cheese Layer

Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the surface of the mixture. This will melt down into the rice, creating a luscious and tangy cheesy layer.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Heat and Pour the Queso

Once the rice and chicken mixture is cooked, remove it from the oven. Heat the queso dip according to its package instructions, then pour it evenly over the warm casserole for that signature creamy finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe is now ready to be served. Scoop generous portions onto plates, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness in every bite.

How to Serve Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe

A serving of lasagna is on a white plate with a dark edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The lasagna has three visible layers: the bottom layer is spaghetti mixed with a dark reddish-brown sauce, the middle layer is chunky meat in a rich reddish color, and the top layer is melted white cheese that looks creamy and smooth. A fork holds a bite of the lasagna in the foreground, showing the layers and the soft texture of the cheese stretching slightly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes like freshly chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced avocado add a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy and cheesy base. A dollop of sour cream can also amp up the richness and balance the spice perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips, a simple side salad, or steamed vegetables to add color and crunch. Light, refreshing sides help balance the hearty, cheesy textures of the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the mixture in individual mini casserole dishes or even inside halved bell peppers for a festive presentation. You can also turn it into a loaded bake by adding black beans, corn, or jalapeños for extra layers of flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This dish also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating helps retain moisture so the rice stays tender and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cooked rice instead of the packet rice mix?

While you can, the Knorr Spanish or Mexican rice packets provide a specific blend of spices that are key to the authentic flavor of this recipe. If you use fresh rice, be sure to season it generously and adjust liquids accordingly.

What type of cooked chicken works best?

Leftover rotisserie chicken, shredded baked chicken, or even grilled chicken breast all work wonderfully. Just use what you have on hand for easy prep.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for black beans or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors will still be delicious and satisfying.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two 9x13 dishes and adjust baking time slightly as needed. Keep an eye on the rice to make sure it cooks thoroughly.

What toppings go best with Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe?

Some of my favorites include sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, chopped olives, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice. These toppings add brightness and texture that complement the creamy casserole perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cozy, cheesy, and flavor-packed meal, you really can’t go wrong with the Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s simple to make, full of comforting ingredients, and always a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Give it a whirl and savor every bite!

Swim Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

Print Recipe

This Swim Queso Chicken and Rice casserole is a delicious and easy one-dish meal combining flavorful Mexican rice, tender cooked chicken, salsa, taco seasoning, and cheddar cheese baked to perfection and topped with creamy queso dip. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, served with your favorite toppings and tortilla chips for a satisfying Tex-Mex feast.

Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 Knorr Spanish Rice or Mexican Rice packages
3 cups Chicken broth
15 ounces Salsa
2-3 cups Cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
2 tablespoons Taco seasoning
2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 jar Queso dip

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Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Mix ingredients in baking dish: Add the Knorr Mexican rice, chicken broth, salsa, taco seasoning, and cooked chicken into the prepared baking dish. Stir everything together thoroughly using a spoon, ensuring all the rice is submerged and covered evenly with liquid so it cooks properly.
Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the rice and chicken mixture to ensure a cheesy crust once baked.
Cover and bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake for 45 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender and fully cooked through.

Heat queso dip: Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven. Heat the queso dip separately according to the package instructions until warm and smooth.
Serve: Pour the warm queso dip evenly over the baked chicken and rice casserole. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños and tortilla chips on the side.

Notes

Use cooked chicken, such as rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken, to save time.

Adjust the amount of salsa and taco seasoning to taste for desired spice level.
Covering the dish tightly is important to ensure the rice cooks evenly without drying out.
This dish can be prepared a day ahead; simply reheat before serving.