If you have been searching for a dish that perfectly blends bold flavors with creamy indulgence while keeping it low carb and keto-friendly, then Pollo Con Queso: Low Carb & Keto Chicken with Creamy Pepper Jack Queso Recipe is about to become your new go-to meal. This dish marries tender, spice-kissed chicken with a luscious, homemade queso that melts together incredibly smoothly, offering a comforting yet vibrant taste experience. Whether you’re new to keto cooking or a seasoned low carb enthusiast, this recipe delivers all the richness and satisfaction you crave without any guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan with blue handles contains two main layers: the left side shows browned small chicken pieces, golden brown with a slight crispy look, and the right side has a creamy, thick white sauce with soft green and black herb bits mixed in. The sauce covers the bottom and blends slightly with the chicken edges. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things simple but doesn’t skimp on flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building a fragrant spice blend, adding a creamy texture, or bringing a subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds.

Olive oil: Perfect for a light sear that locks in moisture without overpowering the chicken’s natural flavor.
Chicken breast: The lean protein base that soaks up all the spice and queso goodness beautifully.
Chili powder: Adds a smoky warmth that forms the backbone of the seasoning.
Paprika: Brings a mild earthiness and a beautiful red hue to the chicken.
Garlic powder: Enhances savory notes with subtle pungency.
Onion powder: Lends a gentle sweetness and depth.
Cumin: Infuses an exotic, nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Oregano: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous touch for complexity.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight all other flavors.
Mild green chiles (4-ounce can): Provide a mellow heat with a hint of tang that brightens the queso.
Heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety texture and helps mellow the cheese blend.
Cream cheese: Adds creamy body and a slight tang that’s key to that dreamy queso texture.
Shredded pepper jack cheese: Delivers spicy, melty goodness with a kick.
White American cheese: Offers excellent meltability that keeps the queso smooth and luscious.

How to Make Pollo Con Queso: Low Carb & Keto Chicken with Creamy Pepper Jack Queso Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the spice blend

Start by combining chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This mix will be your secret weapon to infuse the chicken with layers of savory warmth, so be sure to mix it well.

Step 2: Sear the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss the bite-sized chicken cubes into the hot oil and sprinkle them evenly with your spice blend. Allow the chicken to brown on each side for about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds fantastic flavor through caramelization while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 3: Set chicken aside

Once cooked through and beautifully browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. This pause gives you space to focus on the queso without overcooking the chicken.

Step 4: Make the creamy pepper jack queso

Turn the heat down to low to prepare the queso sauce. Into the skillet, add green chiles, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine and melt the cream cheese smoothly. Gradually add shredded pepper jack cheese, about half a cup at a time, keeping the mixture stirred to prevent clumping. Follow with the white American cheese, ensuring the sauce stays silky and creamy. If the queso appears too thick, add more heavy cream to adjust the consistency to your liking.

Step 5: Combine chicken and queso

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss carefully in the luscious queso sauce. Coating each piece ensures every bite delivers that rich, creamy, and spicy flavor that makes this Pollo Con Queso: Low Carb & Keto Chicken with Creamy Pepper Jack Queso Recipe so irresistible.

How to Serve Pollo Con Queso: Low Carb & Keto Chicken with Creamy Pepper Jack Queso Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy white sauce that has small specks in it, giving it a textured look. On top of the sauce, there is a layer of chopped green pickles, roughly piled in the center. The white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the contrast of colors between the creamy white sauce and the green pickle pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can add the perfect fresh contrast to the rich queso. Try a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness, a few slices of jalapeño if you like it spicier, or a dash of smoked paprika for a pop of color. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten up the flavors wonderfully right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted low carb vegetables like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice keeps the meal light and balanced. Guacamole and sliced avocado are keto-friendly companions that tie beautifully to the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken and queso stuffed inside roasted bell peppers or over a bed of sautéed spinach for extra greens. Another option is to scoop it onto crispy baked cheese chips or low carb tortillas, turning it into a playful, shareable appetizer. Pollo Con Queso is as versatile as it is delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy queso may thicken but the flavors will deepen and develop overnight, making reheated servings just as enjoyable.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to a month in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent the cheese from separating. You can add a splash of heavy cream or water to restore that perfect creamy consistency if it feels too thick after refrigeration.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pepper jack and white American cheese give the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack to suit your preferences and still keep it keto friendly.

Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?

Yes! This recipe comes together quickly and uses simple ingredients, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying, homemade meal without hours of prep.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely. The pepper jack cheese already brings some heat, but if you want a bolder kick, add extra green chiles, fresh jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix.

What can I serve instead of chicken breast?

Chicken thighs work beautifully if you prefer darker meat—they stay juicy and soak up flavors well. You could also try turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist keeping the same seasoning and queso.

Is this Pollo Con Queso recipe gluten free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, as long as you check that your spices and cheeses have no added gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to spice up your dinner routine with something creamy, cheesy, and delightfully low carb, Pollo Con Queso: Low Carb & Keto Chicken with Creamy Pepper Jack Queso Recipe is here to impress. It’s comfort food meets keto goals, wrapped up in every bite of tender, flavorful chicken swimming in luscious queso. I can’t wait for you to make it and enjoy it just as much as I do!