Description
This One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish combining tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and classic Southwest spices. Cooked all in one pot, it features a delicious mix of black beans, corn, and a vibrant salsa, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Grains & Dairy
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add Rice and Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed long-grain white rice, chicken broth, salsa, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stove or microwave.
- Feel free to substitute brown rice, but increase the simmering time and liquid accordingly.
- Add chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Keywords: One-pot meal, cheesy chicken and rice, Southwest chicken, quick dinner, easy chicken recipes
