Mexican Cheesy Chicken & Rice: A Budget-Friendly Comfort Classic

Image source: @gena__je via Black Foodie Finder on Instagram

A Comfort Food Twist You’ll Keep on Repeat

When comfort food meets Latin-inspired flavor, magic happens — and this Mexican Cheesy Chicken & Rice is proof. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the kind of weeknight dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

This budget-friendly recipe combines three irresistible elements: seasoned chicken, savory tomato rice, and a rich cheese sauce made with Velveeta and pepper jack. Think Tex-Mex vibes with a soul food hug — it’s filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Perfect for feeding your crew or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients (What You Need)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups rice
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning
• 1 tbsp chicken-flavored bouillon
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 4 cups water or chicken broth

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 12 oz can of evaporated milk
• 16 oz Queso Blanco Velveeta
• 7 oz can of diced green chilis
• 8 oz grated pepper jack cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s Cook This Comfort Food

Steps for the Rice:

1. In a large saucepan, heat cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in the rice and toast for 2–3 minutes until slightly golden.
4. Add Sazon seasoning, bouillon, tomato sauce, and water or broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Steps for the Chicken:

1. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, Sazon, salt, and pepper.
2. In a skillet, heat butter and oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Set aside.

Steps for the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat evaporated milk over low heat.
2. Add Velveeta and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in diced green chilis and pepper jack cheese. Cook until fully melted and creamy.
4. Pour over chicken and rice for that creamy, cheesy finish.

More Than a Meal – It’s a Whole Experience

This dish is more than a recipe — it’s a fusion of cultural comfort. The seasoned rice brings Mexican flair, while the creamy cheese sauce ties it together in a way that just feels like home. It’s affordable, filling, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Pro Tip: Want to elevate it even more? Add grilled corn, avocado, or chopped cilantro on top. You could even swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist!

About the Creator

This recipe was created by @gena__je, a content creator featured on Black Foodie Finder. Her cooking brings together heart, flavor, and culture. Want to see more of her food inspiration?
Follow her on Instagram: @gena__je