One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice: Creamy Bliss!

If you’re seeking a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family will adore, look no further than this One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice. This dish combines tender chicken, zesty spices, and gooey cheese, all cooked conveniently in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a fantastic go-to for busy weeknights or when entertaining friends, as it brings everyone together around a vibrant, satisfying meal.

What makes this recipe truly special is its blend of flavors and textures—from the creamy richness of cream cheese to the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables. The spices add a delightful warmth that will make you feel like you’re enjoying a cozy meal by the fire. With a mixture of protein, grains, and veggies, it’s a complete meal that delivers on both taste and nutrition. Your family will love how all the ingredients come together in perfect harmony, and you’ll love how simple it is to make!

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

Protein:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Grains:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

Dairy:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

Vegetables:

• 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

Liquids:

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup salsa

Spices:

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

Gathering all the fresh ingredients makes preparation a breeze!

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Introduce 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. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese and half of the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient substitutions: You can use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option, or swap chicken for ground turkey or beef.
• Optional variations: For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Storage or reheating tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to retain moisture.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty level: Easy

Delicious One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a perfect comfort meal for any occasion!