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Easy One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice – Creamy Comfort Dinner

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This comforting one-pot cheesy Southwest chicken & rice is a bold, flavorful, and easy dinner packed with tender chicken, rice, beans, corn, and melted cheese. It’s a hearty, balanced meal perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. Dice chicken, chop vegetables, and rinse rice until water runs clear.
  2. Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sear chicken until lightly browned.
  4. Add onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic and bell peppers.
  5. Add rice, stir to coat, then pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.
  7. Stir in black beans and corn and cook for a few minutes.
  8. Top with cheeses, cover, and let melt.
  9. Finish with lime juice and fresh cilantro.
  10. Fluff and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
  • Rinse rice well to prevent stickiness.
  • Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it moist.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Southwest