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–+ servings
One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice for Easy Comfort Food

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a delightful, quick, and customizable comfort food perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Can substitute with turkey or vegetarian alternatives.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Rice Consider using brown rice for added fiber.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Any variety works well.
  • 1 cup Corn Frozen corn works well; can substitute with peas.
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Use freshly grated for better texture.
For the Protein Boost
  • 1 cup Beans Black beans or pinto beans.
For Flavor Base
  • 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Essential for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Add chili powder for more heat if desired.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pot

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add diced chicken and sauté until golden-brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Mix in chopped bell peppers and corn, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 additional minute.
  5. Add rice, stirring well, and toast for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 20-25 minutes.
  7. Check occasionally to ensure rice isn't sticking; it's done when tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  8. Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese; let sit for 5 minutes.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy with family and friends.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, cut chicken into uniform pieces. Substitute brown rice for added fiber and adjust cooking time accordingly. Adding seasonal veggies increases nutrition and freshness.

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