Dinner

Chicken Queso Dip Recipe

Bymia larkspur January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

Introduction

Chicken Queso Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for game days or casual gatherings. Combining tender chicken, melted cheeses, and a touch of spice, this dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser served with crunchy tortilla chips.

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light orange dip that has a slightly chunky texture with visible small pieces of tomatoes and herbs mixed inside. The dip is topped with a generous sprinkle of finely chopped green chives, scattered mostly in the center. Around the bowl, there are many light brown, crisp tortilla chips resting on a white marbled surface. One chip is partially dipped into the dip on the left side, slightly submerged in the creamy mixture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large chicken breast (cooked and shredded, can 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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, paprika, and oregano until well coated.
Step 3: In a 13×9 inch baking dish, combine the Velveeta cheese cubes, pepper jack cheese, cream cheese, seasoned chicken, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, red onion, and diced tomatoes with chilis.
Step 4: Drizzle the evaporated milk evenly over the mixture.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheeses have fully melted. Remove from the oven and stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Serve warm with tortilla chips for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For a milder dip, remove the jalapeño seeds before adding or substitute with a sweet bell pepper.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
To make it extra creamy, add a splash of heavy cream instead of evaporated milk.
Add black beans or corn for additional texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. This dip does not freeze well due to its creamy cheese base.

How to Serve

The image shows a collection of cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. At the bottom left, there are several chunks and slices of bright orange cheddar cheese placed on a piece of silver foil. Above the cheddar, a small white bowl contains finely chopped garlic. Nearby, there is a mound of shredded white cheese with some red pepper flakes sprinkled in. To the right, a white plate holds shredded cooked chicken pieces. Above the chicken is a block of white cream cheese resting on silver foil. To the right of the cream cheese, a can with cream-colored liquid is partially visible. A small glass bowl filled with diced green bell peppers sits above. A small beige dish contains an assortment of spices in separate sections: red paprika powder, black pepper, dried oregano, and pink salt. Fresh cilantro leaves are placed on the left side, next to a glass cup holding finely chopped red onions. On the top left, a clear measuring cup is filled with chunky red salsa. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

If you prefer to avoid processed cheese, you can substitute Velveeta with a mild cheddar or a mix of cream cheese and shredded mozzarella for a similar creamy texture.