Description

This One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a vibrant blend of Southwest spices. Loaded with protein, vegetables, and a perfect cheesy finish, this easy stovetop meal is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Grains

1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

Dairy

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

Vegetables

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

Liquids

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup salsa

Spices

1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook Chicken: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, corn, rice, chicken broth, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheeses: Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Melt Topping Cheese: Top the mixture with the remaining cheddar cheese, cover again, and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
Serve: Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Notes

Use fresh or frozen corn depending on availability; if using frozen, no need to thaw before adding.
Adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin to your preferred spice level.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with extra beans or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cheeses.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southwestern

Keywords: one-pot, cheesy chicken, southwest chicken, chicken and rice, easy dinner, comfort food, quick meal