Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice

Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese all tossed with fluffy cooked rice. This comforting dish brings together simple ingredients for a wholesome meal that feels indulgent but comes together in no time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a balanced plate of protein, veggies, and carbs without any fuss. Plus, the melty cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory layer that makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The Upside of Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice

There’s so much to love about Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice beyond its mouthwatering flavor. For starters, it’s an incredibly versatile recipe that adapts well to what you have on hand. The use of cooked rice means you can whip this up quickly without waiting for grains to cook from scratch. It’s also a one-skillet meal if you want to simplify cleanup. Nutritionally, it strikes a great balance—lean chicken breast brings protein, broccoli adds fiber and vitamins, and cheddar cheese offers calcium and a comforting creaminess. This recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate more veggies into your family’s diet, especially for those who might be a little picky about greens. And if you’re a fan of easy, wholesome meals that don’t skimp on flavor, this dish is going to become a staple in your rotation.

Ingredient Notes

• Cooked Rice: Using 2 cups of cooked rice helps speed up the cooking process and ensures the rice is fluffy and not mushy. Leftover rice works wonderfully here.
• Chicken Breast: Diced boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly. You can swap for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste and juicier texture.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh or lightly steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and vibrant green color. Frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch but be sure to thaw and drain well.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar shredded fresh creates a creamy, cheesy flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with additives for best melting results.
• Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the chicken and add subtle richness without overpowering the dish.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples infuse flavor without needing fresh garlic or onions, keeping the recipe simple.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and depth, making the rice extra tender and flavorful. Vegetable broth is a fine alternative.
• Milk: A splash of milk creates a creamy sauce when combined with cheddar cheese, keeping the dish moist and comforting.
• Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a finishing touch.

Setup & Equipment

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For cooking chicken and broccoli and mixing everything together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts for balanced flavor and texture.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing chicken and slicing green onions.
• Mixing Spoon or Spatula: To stir and combine ingredients evenly.
• Grater: If shredding your own cheddar cheese for the freshest melt.

Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Make sure your rice is cooked and cooled, diced chicken breast is ready, and broccoli florets are prepped. Shred the cheddar cheese and slice the green onions. Having everything ready will make the cooking process seamless.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and just tender but still crisp. This quick cooking keeps the veggies from becoming mushy.

Step 4: Combine Broth, Milk, and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to deglaze the pan and create a little sauce. Add in the cooked rice and stir everything together, coating the rice with the flavorful liquid and mixing well with the chicken and broccoli.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the rice mixture. Stir gently until the cheese melts and creates a creamy texture that binds the dish together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of color. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

Better Choices & Swaps

• Swap chicken breast for chicken thighs for a more tender, juicy option.
• Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a low-carb version.
• Try Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and flavor complexity.
• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it lighter or vegetarian-friendly.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Avoid overcooking the broccoli; it should remain crisp to add texture and color.
• Don’t add the cheese too early – melting it on too high heat can cause it to become greasy or clump.
• Be cautious with the amount of liquid; too much can make the rice mushy.
• Season moderately at first—you can always add more salt and pepper at the end to avoid over-seasoning.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice recipe is an excellent make-ahead meal. Prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese, then cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, then stir in the cheddar cheese and green onions fresh to keep the flavors vibrant and the cheese perfectly melted. For meal prep, portion into containers to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for longer storage—just thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to reduce excess moisture and prevent the dish from becoming soggy.

Is it better to cook the rice fresh or use leftover rice?

Using leftover cooked rice is ideal because it’s drier and less likely to turn mushy when combined with the other ingredients. Freshly cooked rice can be used but let it cool and dry out slightly before adding.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cheese and broccoli still make it hearty and satisfying.

What can I serve alongside Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or light soup. For a comforting combo, try serving it with Cheddar Scallion Buttermilk Biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce.

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Time to Try It

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy plate of Chicken and Broccoli Cheddar Rice to satisfy your hunger and brighten your dinner table. With its quick prep, wholesome ingredients, and irresistible flavor, this dish is ready to become your go-to comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the days ahead, give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, balanced meal everyone will love.

This easy recipe proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special — so grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get cooking!

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