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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice for Ultimate Comfort

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a comforting and gluten-free dish perfect for busy nights, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant spices.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound diced chicken breast can be substituted with turkey for a lighter option
For the Rice
  • 1 cup rice brown rice can be used for more fiber
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers can substitute with zucchini or corn
  • 1 cup corn frozen corn is a good alternative
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Monterey Jack is a delicious substitute
For Cooking
  • 2 cups chicken broth vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil avocado oil can also be used
For Flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast to the hot pot and sauté for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked to 165°F.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of diced bell peppers and 1 cup of corn; cook until the vegetables soften, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add 1 cup of rice and spices (1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder). Stir for a minute.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, bring to a boil, and stir.
  6. Lower heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 20 minutes until rice is fluffy.
  7. Remove pot from heat and stir in 1 to 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  8. Scoop into bowls and serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 720mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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