1–2 lbs chicken (thighs or breasts), sliced into strips
1 large onion, diced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 bell peppers (red, orange, yellow), sliced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (4 oz) mild diced green chilies
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup pepper Jack cheese, freshly shredded
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Heat butter and olive oil in large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and onions, cook 5-7 minutes until chicken is no longer pink and onions are softened.
Add bell peppers and garlic, cook 2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over everything and stir to coat. Add all spices and cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Stir in rice, black beans, green chilies, and crushed tomatoes. Pour in 3 cups chicken broth and stir, scraping bottom of pot.
Whisk cornstarch with remaining 1 cup broth until smooth. Pour into soup and stir well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until rice is tender.
Remove from heat and stir in pepper Jack cheese. Let melt 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Ladle into bowls and serve with desired toppings.
Notes
For thinner soup, add additional chicken broth to desired consistency.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting – pre-packaged cheese contains anti-caking agents.
Season to taste with hot sauce, cayenne pepper, lime juice, or salt.
Rice will continue absorbing liquid – add broth when reheating.