Go Back
–+ servings
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Melty Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice for Cozy Nights

A comforting dish featuring Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course One-Pot Meals
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large saucepan

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Rice

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded a great way to use leftover roast chicken!
  • 1 cup white or brown rice, uncooked brown rice adds more fiber for a health boost.
  • 2 cups chicken broth enhances flavor and keeps your rice moist and tender.

For the Veggies

  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen; vibrant color and essential nutrients enrich the dish.
  • 1 small onion, diced adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.

For the Creamy Blend

  • 1 cup milk creates a creamy texture that ties all ingredients together beautifully.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese the melty star of the show.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, rich note for extra flavor.

For Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons butter enhances richness and helps with sautéing.
  • salt and pepper to taste; essential for balancing all the flavors.
  • optional cayenne a dash for a kick of heat if you like a little spice!

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring frequently for 3–4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
  • Pour in 1 cup of uncooked rice, stirring continuously to ensure each grain is coated in the buttery onion mix. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes.
  • Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while stirring to combine. Increase the heat until the mixture reaches a boil, then reduce the temperature to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the rice is just tender.
  • Add 2 cups of broccoli florets to the pan, stirring gently. Replace the lid and cook for another 5 minutes.
  • Add 2 cups of diced or shredded chicken, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the saucepan. Stir everything together until the cheeses melt and create a creamy blend.
  • Season your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice with salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. Let it cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
  • Spoon the delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For best results, always use freshly shredded cheese for a smooth melt, allow rice to simmer properly, and customize protein options as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice, comfort food, family dinner, Healthy Dinner, meal prep, one pot meals
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!