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One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice is a comforting and hearty dish combining smoky turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and bold Southwest spices. This easy one-pot meal delivers rich flavors, vibrant colors, and a creamy texture, perfect for a quick family dinner or any cozy occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with chilies
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 cup grated plant-based cheese
  • 2 cups chicken broth (natural)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Optional Variations

  • Chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper for spice
  • Extra firm tofu or tempeh as chicken substitute
  • Brown rice instead of white rice
  • Corn kernels, black beans, or zucchini for extra veggies
  • Lime zest and juice for finishing touch

Cooking Essentials

  • Oil for sautéing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onions, bell peppers, and garlic finely. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Roughly chop the smoked turkey bacon to release texture during cooking.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Turkey Bacon: Heat a splash of oil in a wide pot over medium heat. Add the turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside. Then sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic in the rendered fat until soft and fragrant.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sear until golden on all sides but not fully cooked through, locking in juiciness.
  4. Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the rinsed rice, smoked paprika, cumin, and diced tomatoes with chilies. Pour in the chicken broth (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), mixing everything thoroughly.
  5. Simmer Until Tender: Cover and reduce heat to low, cooking the rice and chicken for about 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is fully absorbed.
  6. Add Plant-Based Cheese and Turkey Bacon: Sprinkle grated plant-based cheese evenly over the top. Cover again to let it melt as you fluff the rice gently with a fork. Fold in the crispy turkey bacon pieces for a crunchy contrast.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Finish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.
  • Rinse rice under cold water to remove excess starch and ensure fluffiness.
  • Maintain low heat during simmering to cook rice evenly without burning the bottom.
  • Use a snug-fitting lid to trap steam and achieve perfectly cooked rice.
  • Add plant-based cheese at the end to preserve its creamy texture without over-melting.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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

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