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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice for Cozy Nights

A warm and comforting One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice that's gluten-free and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Substitution: Use cut-up rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup Rice Use long-grain or brown rice for a nutty flavor.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Substitution: Swap with chopped zucchini for a different veggie.
  • 1 cup Corn Substitution: Canned corn can be used if fresh isn't available.
For the Creamy Touch
  • 1 to 1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese Use Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
For the Flavor
  • 2 cups Broth (Chicken or Vegetable) Low-sodium options can reduce salt content.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Adjust according to personal heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust according to personal heat preference.
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be substituted with avocado oil for a lighter flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add diced chicken breast and sauté for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  2. Stir in 1 cup of diced bell peppers and 1 cup of corn. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until peppers are tender.
  3. Add 1 cup of rice along with 1 teaspoon of cumin and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Pour in 2 cups of broth, stir gently, and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is tender.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 to 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or sliced green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat properly before serving.

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