Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Bold, Authentic Flavors: The combination of seasoned chicken, savory rice, and creamy queso gives this dish a comforting, restaurant-quality flavor.
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Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Customizable: Adjust the seasonings and add extras like veggies or beans to make it your own.
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Quick and Satisfying: Ready in under an hour, this meal is both filling and delicious, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 pounds of chicken, sliced into strips
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2 tablespoons butter
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Salt and pepper
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Paprika
For the Rice:
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4 cups water
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2 cups white rice
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3 tablespoons vegetable oil
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3 tablespoons Knorr tomato bouillon with chicken flavor
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Salt and pepper
Additional:
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Store-bought queso cheese for topping
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
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Slice the chicken into strips, and pat it dry with a paper towel.
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Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub the seasoning in for an even coat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
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Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat.
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Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Make the Rice:
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In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
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Add vegetable oil, Knorr tomato bouillon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in the rice, cover, and cook on low heat for 25 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
4. Combine Chicken and Rice:
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Serve the rice on each plate, and top with the cooked chicken strips.
5. Add the Creamy Queso Topping:
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Drizzle store-bought queso cheese over the chicken and rice for the finishing touch.
Servings and Timing
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Total Time: 45 minutes
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 35 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
Variations
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Add Veggies: Enhance the dish with sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans.
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Spicy Version: Add chili powder, cayenne, or jalapeños to the rice or chicken for a spicy kick.
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Use Brown Rice: Swap out white rice for brown rice for a healthier, fiber-rich alternative.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, making them a great option.
What can I use instead of Knorr tomato bouillon?
You can substitute with chicken broth and a little tomato paste or regular chicken bouillon with added paprika.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and simply reheat them before serving.
What’s the best way to melt store-bought queso?
Heat the queso in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Homemade Pollo Loco is a perfect meal for anyone craving the flavors of Mexican cuisine. With seasoned chicken, savory rice, and creamy queso cheese, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it’s ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Enjoy this delicious recipe and bring the taste of a Mexican restaurant to your home!
Print
Homemade Pollo Loco
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Homemade Pollo Loco brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine straight to your kitchen. Juicy seasoned chicken strips, savory rice, and creamy queso cheese come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Quick to make and easily customizable, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 pounds of chicken, sliced into strips
2 tablespoons butter
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Paprika
For the Rice:
4 cups water
2 cups white rice
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons Knorr tomato bouillon with chicken flavor
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Additional:
Store-bought queso cheese for topping
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken into strips and pat dry with a paper towel. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub the seasoning into the chicken for an even coat.
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Cook the Chicken: Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Make the Rice: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add vegetable oil, Knorr tomato bouillon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the rice, cover, and cook on low heat for 25 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
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Combine Chicken and Rice: Serve the rice on each plate and top with the cooked chicken strips.
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Add the Creamy Queso Topping: Drizzle store-bought queso cheese over the chicken and rice for the final touch.
Notes
Add Veggies: Enhance the dish with sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans.
Spicy Version: Add chili powder, cayenne, or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Use Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Mexican Cuisine
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
