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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy a flavorful One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice bursting with vibrant spices, tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese. This easy, comforting dish combines Southwest seasonings and fresh ingredients in a single pot, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, cut into small strips

Grains & Legumes

  • 1 cup long grain white rice

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquids & Other

  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese (cheddar-style or pepper jack-style)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onion and garlic, and cut the smoked turkey bacon into small strips to ensure quick and even cooking while building layers of flavor.
  2. Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the smoked turkey bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove it from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat behind to add a smoky base to the dish.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the bacon fat and sauté until softened and fragrant. Next, add the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned on the outside but not fully cooked through.
  4. Add Spices and Rice: Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, and oregano, coating the chicken and aromatics well. Then add the rice, stirring for a couple of minutes to toast it lightly and blend it with the spices.
  5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural). Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook undisturbed until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Finish with Cheese and Bacon: Remove the lid and gently fold in the plant-based cheese and cooked smoked turkey bacon. Cover again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a luscious, creamy texture that ties all the flavors together.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness that complements the warm spices perfectly.

Notes

  • Use quality chicken broth for richer depth of flavor.
  • Do not lift the lid during simmering to ensure perfect rice texture.
  • Toast the rice slightly before adding liquids to enhance nutty flavor.
  • Add chili powder gradually and taste to adjust spice levels.
  • Let the pot rest off heat for 5 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southwest American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: one-pot, cheesy, southwest, chicken, rice, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food

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