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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice

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A weeknight solution that balances sharp cheddar, tangy salsa, and tender chicken in a single pan for effortless comfort.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

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

Notes

Use long-grain rice and rinse it to keep grains separate. Sear the chicken well without overcooking. Stir in cream cheese off the heat for even melting.

  • Author: Sam Razal
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg