One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, creamy cheese, and classic southwestern spices, it’s a satisfying meal made with minimal cleanup.

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
• 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

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Step 2: Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until no longer pink.
3. Step 3: Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, salsa, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
5. Step 5: Stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a diced bell pepper when sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier version.
• Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer more juicy meat.
• Add chopped fresh cilantro as a garnish before serving for added freshness.

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

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will take longer to cook. You may need to increase the simmering time and liquid accordingly.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, but the texture of the rice may change slightly. To freeze, cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 86 reviews

This One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a flavorful and comforting meal combining tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a medley of Southwestern spices and vegetables. With the convenience of cooking everything in one pot, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hearty blend of textures and bold tastes all in a single dish.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southwestern
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins and Dairy

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

Grains

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned

Liquids and Sauces

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup salsa

Spices and Seasonings

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

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This builds the flavor base of your dish.
2. Cook Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until the pieces are no longer pink in the center, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, salsa, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Combine everything thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Add Cheeses: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheeses melt completely and incorporate into the dish, creating a creamy texture.

Notes

• Rinsing the rice prevents excess starchiness and helps achieve a fluffier texture.
• You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin amounts based on your spice preference.
• For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions before serving.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.

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