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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice

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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort meal, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, bold Southwest spices, and a creamy blend of cheeses—all cooked together in one pot. This hearty, flavor-packed dish delivers cheesy bliss in every bite and is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

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 in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
  2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in 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 until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese and half of the cheddar cheese until creamy.
  6. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes to melt.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
  • Substitute quinoa for rice if desired.
  • Add jalapeños or spicy salsa for extra heat.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: One-Pot Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American