Chicken Queso Dip

Chicken Queso Dip is the ultimate warm and cheesy appetizer that delivers bold Tex-Mex flavors in every bite. Packed with tender shredded chicken, melted cheese, spicy jalapeños, and a touch of seasoning, this hearty dip is perfect for entertaining, game day snacking, or cozy nights at home. It’s creamy, satisfying, and sure to disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip combines the richness of three cheeses with the zesty flavor of seasoned chicken and the subtle heat of jalapeños. It’s oven-baked for a gooey, bubbling finish that’s impossible to resist. Easy to assemble and crowd-pleasing by nature, it’s ideal for parties or casual gatherings. Serve it with tortilla chips and watch it vanish in no time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 large chicken breast, cooked and shredded (or use rotisserie)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
6 ounces pepper jack cheese
8 ounces cream cheese
1 large jalapeño, chopped and seeded (for less spice)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup red onion, chopped
14 ounces diced tomatoes with chilis
6 ounces evaporated milk
Tortilla chips, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with salt, pepper, minced garlic, paprika, and oregano.

3. In a 13×9-inch baking dish, add the Velveeta cubes, pepper jack cheese, cream cheese, seasoned chicken, jalapeño, cilantro, red onion, and diced tomatoes with chilis.

4. Drizzle the evaporated milk evenly over all the ingredients.

5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and bubbling.

6. Stir the mixture well to combine everything into a creamy dip.

7. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Extra Heat: Add more jalapeños or include a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

• No Velveeta Option: Substitute with a mild melting cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

• Veggie Boost: Stir in corn, black beans, or chopped bell peppers for added texture and color.

• Spice Blend Swap: Replace paprika and oregano with taco seasoning or chili powder for a different flavor profile.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based shredded cheese, and coconut evaporated milk.

• Skillet-Style: Prepare the dip in a cast iron skillet for a rustic look and even heat distribution.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the dip.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of Velveeta?

You can use shredded American cheese, Monterey Jack, or cheddar, though the texture may be slightly different.

Can I make this dip on the stovetop?

Yes, melt everything in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until smooth and heated through.

How spicy is this dip?

It’s mildly spicy due to the jalapeño and pepper jack. You can adjust the spice by adding more or omitting the seeds.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken is preferred for better flavor and texture.

Can I freeze this dip?

It’s not recommended, as the cheese and dairy may separate when thawed and reheated.

What should I serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips, pita chips, sliced baguette, or even veggie sticks are all great choices.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely. Feel free to customize the blend with cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorites.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, all listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your chips or dippers are, too.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust bake time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

Chicken Queso Dip is everything you want in a warm, melty party dip—rich, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in something comforting, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With just a few ingredients and one baking dish, it’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat.

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