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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice for Cozy Nights

This One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken & Rice is a weeknight miracle with customizable ingredients, ensuring satisfaction for everyone at the table.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced substitute with turkey for lighter option
For the Base
  • 1 cup rice consider brown rice for added fiber
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth use vegetable broth for gluten-free option
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped mix different varieties for visual appeal
  • 1 cup corn frozen corn works well, can swap with peas
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded try pepper jack for heat
For the Protein Boost
  • 1 can beans, black or pinto great vegetarian option
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika chili powder can increase heat
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced chicken breast and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. Stir in the chopped bell peppers and corn. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast it slightly.
  5. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, stir, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
  6. Check the rice for tenderness. If undercooked, continue cooking uncovered, adding broth if necessary.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, gently folding until melted.
  8. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness. Freshly grated cheese ensures creaminess. Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.

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