If you’re searching for a fast, family-friendly dinner that’s both hearty and comforting, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the answer. With just six everyday ingredients, this one-pot skillet meal comes together on the stove in only 30 minutes—making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Juicy chicken, tender rice, fresh broccoli, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese combine into a creamy, cheesy dish that kids and adults will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Done in about 25–30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Simple Ingredients – Everything you need is pantry- or freezer-friendly.
- Family Favorite – Mild, cheesy flavor makes it perfect for picky eaters.
- One Pot – Easy cooking and even easier cleanup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this dish so simple and delicious:
- Olive Oil – Use a light-tasting olive oil for cooking the chicken.
- Chicken Breasts – Cut into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Rice – Basmati or long-grain white rice works best.
- Chicken Broth – Use regular chicken broth for the most flavor.
- Frozen Broccoli – A steamable bag is quick, easy, and perfect for this recipe.
- Cheddar Cheese – Freshly shredded cheddar melts the smoothest.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is white on the outside and mostly cooked through (about 4–6 minutes). Drain any excess liquid.
Step 2 – Add Rice & Broth
Stir in the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Step 3 – Add Broccoli & Cheese
Meanwhile, steam the broccoli in the microwave according to package directions. Chop it into smaller pieces if you’d like. Stir broccoli and half the shredded cheddar into the cooked chicken and rice.
Step 4 – Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes, until melted and gooey. Serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Shred Your Own Cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Cut Chicken Small – Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and evenly.
- Stick with White Rice – Brown rice takes longer to cook and may throw off the timing.
- Use Full-Salt Broth – For best flavor, use regular chicken broth.
Variations
- Spicy Twist – Swap cheddar for pepper jack and add cayenne or chili powder.
- Extra Flavor – Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, or sautéed onions.
- Different Cheeses – Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend for variety.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for 3–4 months in freezer bags or containers. (Note: rice can soften once thawed.)
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water, or in the microwave.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner—simple, cheesy, and filling with minimal effort. It’s one of those recipes you’ll keep on repeat because the whole family will clean their plates every time.
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup uncooked basmati rice (or long-grain rice)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 bag (12 oz) frozen steamable broccoli (about 2 cups chopped)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet with a lid, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook 4–6 minutes until chicken is mostly cooked through. Drain excess liquid.
- Add rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- While rice cooks, steam broccoli according to package directions. Chop into smaller pieces if desired.
- Stir in broccoli and 1 cup cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover, and cook 2 minutes until melted.
- Serve warm.