Pollo con Queso combines succulent chicken breasts with a creamy cheese sauce that’s rich and velvety. The mozzarella and Parmesan give it an irresistible depth of flavor, while the oregano adds a touch of earthy seasoning.
This dish is perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet, offering a satisfying and filling meal without compromising on taste. The chicken is cooked to perfection, and the cheese sauce brings all the flavors together in a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, Pollo con Queso is sure to impress.
Full Recipe:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
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Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
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Reduce the heat and add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
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Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Keto-Friendly Meals?
Keto diets have gained immense popularity in recent years, largely because they focus on healthy fats, moderate protein, and very few carbohydrates. The ketogenic diet has been praised for its potential benefits, including weight loss, better energy levels, and improved mental clarity. However, sticking to the keto plan doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor. With recipes like Pollo con Queso, you can enjoy rich, creamy dishes that are both satisfying and nourishing, all while staying within your dietary limits.
The Appeal of Pollo con Queso
Pollo con Queso, also known as creamy chicken with cheese, is an outstanding choice for keto enthusiasts. The combination of juicy chicken breasts and a smooth, velvety cheese sauce creates a comforting dish that anyone can enjoy. It takes just a few ingredients to make, and it can be on your table in less than 30 minutes. The simple yet flavorful ingredients allow the chicken to remain the star of the dish, while the cheese sauce adds a luscious layer of richness. Plus, the addition of fresh herbs and spices elevates the flavor profile and enhances the overall experience.
One of the best things about Pollo con Queso is its versatility. While the basic recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, you can easily customize the sauce to your preferences. If you enjoy a more tangy flavor, consider adding a touch of cream cheese, or swap out the Parmesan for a sharper cheese like cheddar. The creamy texture of the sauce and the crispiness of the chicken make for an incredible contrast of flavors that will please your taste buds.
Nutritional Benefits of Pollo con Queso
Pollo con Queso not only caters to a keto lifestyle, but it also provides essential nutrients that are good for your body. With a healthy dose of protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheeses, this dish can help support muscle maintenance and bone health. The high-fat content, coming from sources like heavy cream and olive oil, offers long-lasting energy while keeping you feeling satisfied for hours. Since the recipe is low in carbs, it can help keep your blood sugar levels stable, a key factor in managing weight and energy levels.
Additionally, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those who need to avoid gluten. The rich cheese sauce is filling without being overly heavy, and it doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it an excellent choice for both keto dieters and anyone following a gluten-free diet.
A Perfect Weeknight Dinner
Pollo con Queso is the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight dinner. After a long day at work, it can be challenging to come up with something quick yet satisfying, but this recipe delivers on both. With minimal prep time and a cooking time of only 15-20 minutes, you’ll have a meal on the table in no time. The creamy sauce can be made in the same pan as the chicken, which saves you from extra dishes and ensures maximum flavor infusion.
Another advantage of this dish is its ability to be made ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, store it in the fridge, and then reheat it when you’re ready to eat. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or preparing meals for the week.
Ideal for Special Occasions
While Pollo con Queso is easy enough for a casual dinner, it’s also elegant enough to serve at a special gathering or family dinner. Its creamy, cheesy texture and savory flavors will impress your guests, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or even a fresh green salad. For an extra touch of flavor, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, which not only add a burst of color but also enhance the freshness of the overall meal.
This dish is an ideal option for holidays, celebrations, or any occasion where you want to serve something indulgent yet still aligned with your keto goals. The fact that it’s both comforting and elegant makes it versatile enough for any event.
Easy Customizations
Pollo con Queso offers plenty of room for creativity. While the classic version uses mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, you can easily swap them out for other cheeses based on your preference or what you have in your kitchen. Adding a bit of cream cheese will give the sauce an even richer texture, and you can experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or chili flakes for a unique twist.
If you’re craving a little more texture in your meal, you can add some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even bacon to the sauce. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can give this dish a spicy kick. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients; the possibilities are endless, and you’ll always end up with a flavorful, keto-friendly dish.
How to Serve Pollo con Queso
Pollo con Queso is delicious on its own, but serving it with a side dish can elevate the entire meal. Consider pairing it with a low-carb vegetable like roasted asparagus, sautéed zucchini, or steamed broccoli. These sides complement the creamy chicken and bring in an additional nutritional boost without adding too many carbs.
For a heartier meal, you can serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette dressing. A crisp, cool salad will balance out the richness of the chicken, making the dish even more satisfying.
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The Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Pollo con Queso
Pollo con Queso is the ideal dish for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal while staying true to a keto or low-carb lifestyle. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a creamy, savory meal, this dish is sure to impress.
The combination of juicy chicken breasts, rich cheese sauce, and fresh herbs provides the perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s a great addition to your weekly meal rotation or can be dressed up for a special occasion. The best part? You don’t have to sacrifice taste or enjoyment while eating healthily. With Pollo con Queso, you get all the comfort and indulgence you crave, with the added benefits of being keto-friendly and low-carb.
This recipe will become your go-to for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or hosting a gathering. Its ease of preparation, bold flavors, and nutritional benefits make it a perfect addition to any healthy diet. Once you try Pollo con Queso, it’s sure to be a dish that you’ll make again and again.