Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish combining tender chicken, cheesy rice, and Southwest-inspired spices. This comforting meal is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
Grains and Liquids
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until the pieces are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, salsa, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy, ensuring the dish is well combined.
Notes
- For extra spice, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
- Can substitute white rice with brown rice, but cooking time will increase.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add fresh cilantro or green onions as garnish before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Keywords: one-pot chicken recipe, cheesy chicken and rice, southwest chicken dinner, easy weeknight dinner, chicken and rice skillet
