Print

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish made with tender chicken, spices, rice, beans, veggies, and melty cheese—all cooked in one pot for a comforting, easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1–2 bell peppers (any color), diced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, 1/2 tsp cumin, and 1/2 tsp chili powder. Add to the pot and cook until browned on the outside. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Stir in uncooked rice, remaining spices, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth.
  5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring everything to a simmer.
  6. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use brown rice for a healthier twist, but increase liquid and cook time.
  • For extra spice, add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.
  • Swap chicken with ground turkey, beef, or rotisserie chicken for variety.
  • To make vegetarian, skip chicken and add more beans or veggies.
  • Reheat with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/one-pot-cheesy-southwest-chicken-and-rice/