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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, comforting meal made with tender chicken, black beans, corn, rice, spices, and melty cheese. All cooked in one pot, it’s perfect for busy nights with minimal cleanup and big flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
  3. Stir in uncooked rice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toast the rice lightly for flavor.
  4. Add diced tomatoes with juice, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then return the chicken to the pot.
  5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover again for a few minutes to melt.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions and serve warm.

Notes

  • Swap chicken with ground turkey, beef, or vegetarian alternatives like bell peppers or zucchini.
  • Use brown rice for more fiber, but extend the cooking time and increase liquid.
  • Top with sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, or lime juice for added flavor.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.

Nutrition

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