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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and plant-based cheese with Southwest spices. This easy, comforting meal comes together in a single pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty, satisfying dish with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, diced

Grains & Vegetables

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Liquids

  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth

Cheese

  • 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons Southwest seasoning (natural) (blend of cumin, paprika, and chili powder)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the smoked turkey bacon. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even and quick cooking. Gather all spices and liquids before cooking to streamline the process.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Bacon: Heat a large heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Cook the diced smoked turkey bacon until crisp and flavorful, then remove and set aside. Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the rendered bacon fat and sauté until translucent and fragrant, building the savory base.
  3. Cook Chicken and Season: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, browning them until sealed with a slight golden crust. Sprinkle evenly with Southwest seasoning (natural) and smoked paprika (natural), coating the chicken thoroughly to infuse authentic Southwest flavors.
  4. Combine Rice and Liquids: Pour in the long-grain rice, stirring to combine and lightly toast the grains for enhanced nuttiness. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the rice to absorb the bold flavors while remaining tender.
  5. Simmer and Melt Cheese: Cover the pot and cook on low heat until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is fully absorbed. Fold in the plant-based cheese and the crisp smoked turkey bacon, stirring gently until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy, luscious finish.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a vibrant, herbal brightness. Serve immediately to enjoy the comforting cheesy Southwest goodness.

Notes

  • Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio (1 cup rice to 2 1/4 cups broth) to avoid mushy or undercooked rice.
  • Cook covered during simmering to trap moisture and ensure even rice cooking.
  • Let the dish rest covered for 5 minutes off heat to meld flavors deeply.
  • Choose quality smoked turkey bacon for the essential smoky depth.
  • Adjust spices gradually and taste as you go to achieve preferred heat level.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot Cooking
  • Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: One-Pot, Chicken, Southwest, Cheesy, Rice, Plant-based Cheese, Smoked Turkey Bacon

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/one-pot-cheesy-southwest-chicken-and-rice/