Dinner

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice Recipe

Name: One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 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 cup corn, frozen or canned; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup salsa; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

BySarah Summers February 22, 2026February 22, 2026

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Introduction

This One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a southwestern twist, it’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.

A white bowl filled with a base layer of cooked white rice, topped with a mix of grilled chicken pieces that are browned and seasoned, along with small diced red and orange bell peppers, yellow corn kernels, and finely chopped red onions. This is covered by a melted layer of yellow and white cheddar cheese, drizzled with a creamy white sauce, and sprinkled with fresh chopped green herbs. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface near a window with soft natural light. 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
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

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

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers along with the onions and garlic in Step 1.
You can substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for juicier meat.
Use mild, medium, or hot salsa based on your spice preference.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cream cheese and cheddar or use dairy-free alternatives.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for added brightness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the mixture.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a layered rice dish starting with a base of fluffy white rice, topped with grilled chicken pieces that are light brown with grill marks, mixed with bright yellow corn kernels and diced red bell peppers. This is covered by melted yellow and white cheese, with a drizzle of creamy white sauce throughout, and garnished with finely chopped green herbs scattered all over. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface near a window, showing natural light on the food. 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 keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth amount and simmer until the rice is tender.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, but the texture of the rice may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze in portions and reheat thoroughly before serving.