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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice

A satisfying stovetop dish that combines tender chicken, rice, and a creamy, cheesy mixture all in one pot, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

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. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat in a large pot.
  2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the black beans, corn, rice, chicken broth, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, which takes just a few minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese and half of the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

This straightforward cooking method saves both time and cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights. Flavors develop overnight, making the dish even better the next day.

Nutrition