Dinner

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice Recipe

ByLily Cross January 14, 2026January 14, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant Southwest spices, it’s an easy dish that the whole family will love.

The image shows a bowl of rice topped with multiple colorful layers. The bottom layer is white rice, covering the entire base of the white bowl. On top of the rice is a layer of yellow corn mixed with red beans, adding texture and color contrast. Above this is a generous layer of cooked, diced chicken pieces coated in a reddish sauce. This is followed by melted cheddar cheese that looks golden and slightly bubbly. Scattered finely chopped red onions and diced tomatoes sit on top, adding fresh red and purple hues. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of green chopped herbs, giving a fresh and vibrant touch. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup salsa
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the black beans, corn, rice, chicken broth, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese and half of the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Step 7: Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Swap chicken breasts for turkey or tofu for a variation.
Rinse the rice well to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of sour cream before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

A white bowl on a white marbled surface holds a layered dish starting with a base of white rice mixed with yellow corn kernels. On top, there are orange seasoned chicken pieces scattered evenly, covered with melted yellow and white cheese. The dish is finished with small red tomato chunks, finely chopped green herbs, and small pieces of purple onion sprinkled all over. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and check for doneness.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen after cooking. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Lily Cross