If you are looking for a comforting dinner that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this Swim Queso Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect choice. It combines tender chicken, Mexican style rice, salsa, shredded cheese, and creamy queso dip into one satisfying casserole that the whole family will love.
This recipe is inspired by the popular "swim" style recipes that are making the rounds online. The name comes from the generous layer of queso that allows the chicken and rice to practically swim in cheesy goodness. Every bite is creamy, hearty, and full of Tex Mex flavor without requiring a long list of ingredients.
Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something simple to bring to a potluck, this recipe comes together with pantry staples and leftover cooked chicken. It is filling, family friendly, and easy enough for busy evenings.
If you love viral recipes like this try Weight Watchers Mexican Casserole, Dirty Cabbage Recipe, and Dirty Spaghetti Tiktok Recipe!
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Why This Works
I tried and tested this chicken and rice recipe and let me tell you something it's better served with chips for dipping!
- Uses just a handful of simple ingredients.
- Great way to use leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken.
- One baking dish makes cleanup easy.
- Creamy queso keeps the rice moist and flavorful.
- Mexican rice and salsa add plenty of seasoning without extra spices.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Ingredients Needed for Swim Queso Chicken and Rice
- Chicken Broth: Three cups of chicken broth cook the rice while adding rich flavor.
- Knorr Mexican Rice: Two packets of Knorr Mexican Rice provide the perfect seasoned rice base for the casserole.
- Cooked Chicken: Two cups of cooked shredded or diced chicken. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent time saver.
- Salsa: One cup of your favorite salsa adds tomatoes, onions, peppers, and plenty of flavor. Choose mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference.
- Shredded Cheese: Use enough shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese to create an even layer over the rice before adding the queso.
- Queso Dip: A generous layer of prepared queso dip creates the signature creamy topping that makes this recipe so irresistible.
How to Make Swim Queso Chicken and Rice
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
In the prepared baking dish, combine the Knorr Mexican Rice packets with the chicken broth. Then add in enchilada sauce or salsa, and the cheese on top. Cover with foil. Bake until the rice is nearly tender.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If needed, continue baking for a few extra minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the queso is hot, and everything is bubbling around the edges.
Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set slightly and makes serving easier.
Pro Tips Queso Chicken and Rice
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on busy weeknights.
- Choose a chunky salsa for extra texture or a smoother salsa for a creamier casserole.
- Do not overcook the rice during the first bake since it will continue cooking once the remaining ingredients are added.
- If you enjoy spicy food, use hot salsa or stir diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture.
- Add black beans or corn for even more flavor and texture.
- Warm the queso slightly before pouring if it is very thick, making it easier to spread over the casserole.
Storage
Store leftover Swim Queso Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions until heated through or warm larger portions in a 350 degree F oven covered with foil.
If the casserole thickens after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating to restore some of the creamy texture.
Freezing is possible, although the queso may change texture slightly after thawing. Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with several easy side dishes.
Serve it with tortilla chips with some Cowboy Caviar with Italian Dressing or 3 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe
A simple green salad balances the richness of the casserole.
Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables make a great vegetable side.
Top each serving with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or sour cream for extra freshness.
Fresh lime wedges also add a bright finishing touch.
Recipe FAQS
Yes. Rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest options and adds great flavor.
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Any prepared queso dip works well. White queso or classic yellow queso are both delicious options.
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Swim Queso Chicken and Rice
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 35 min
- Total Time: 45 min
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Weight Watchers
Ingredients
- 2 (5.6-ounce) packets Knorr Mexican Rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 (15-ounce) jar queso dip
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the Knorr Mexican Rice, chicken broth, cooked chicken, and salsa to the baking dish. Stir until well combined.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If needed, continue baking for a few extra minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Pour the queso dip evenly over the shredded cheese, spreading it gently with a spoon if needed.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the queso is hot and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe and saves time.
Use mild, medium, or hot salsa depending on your preferred spice level.
Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños if desired.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 355
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
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