Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe for Comforting Meals

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of cheesy chicken and rice wafting through your home. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken swimming in a sea of creamy cheese sauce, paired with fluffy rice that soaks up all that glorious flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance and your heart sing!

I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids were skeptical at first. But after one bite, their eyes lit up like Christmas morning! Cheesy chicken and rice is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in when you want something comforting and delicious.

I’ll never forget the joyous chorus of “More, please!” from my family the first time I served this meal.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 breasts; they cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
• Long-Grain White Rice: The ideal type for fluffy texture; avoid instant rice as it can get mushy.
• Shredded Cheese: Use cheddar or a blend for a gooey finish; it adds richness to every bite.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while infusing flavor into the dish.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until golden for that lovely aroma.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor; you can never go wrong with garlic!
• Olive Oil: A drizzle helps brown the chicken nicely without sticking.
• Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple yet essential for bringing out all the flavors in this dish.
• Vegetables (Optional): Add peas or broccoli for color and nutrients; they blend perfectly with the creamy goodness!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Chicken: Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Cook the Chicken: Toss in your seasoned chicken pieces into the skillet. Cook until they’re golden brown on all sides—about 6-8 minutes should do.

Add Rice & Broth : Stir in long-grain white rice along with chicken broth. Bring it all to a simmer while keeping an eye on those bubbling flavors!

Incorporate Cheese : Once most of the liquid absorbs, sprinkle your shredded cheese over the top. Stir gently until everything is melted together into gooey perfection.

Final Touches : If you’re adding veggies like peas or broccoli, fold them in now! Cover and let it steam for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

And voilà! You’ve just created a masterpiece of cheesy chicken and rice that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

This recipe combines ease of preparation with an irresistible flavor profile that makes every bite memorable. Perfectly creamy yet light enough not to weigh you down—this dish is always a winner at our table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first in a hot pan, then cook the rice while preparing your cheese sauce. This method ensures that everything finishes at the same time and maximizes flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers for color and nutrition. A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors too!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain creaminess.

I still remember the first time I made cheesy chicken and rice for friends; they devoured every bite and begged for seconds!

FAQ

What type of cheese works best in cheesy chicken and rice?

Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix cheeses for variety.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Just add it towards the end to warm through without drying out.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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Cheesy Chicken and Rice

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Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken with gooey cheese and fluffy rice, perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or blend)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup peas or broccoli (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add seasoned chicken, cooking until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
4. Stir in rice and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Once most of the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle cheese on top and stir until melted.
6. If using, fold in veggies like peas or broccoli, cover, and steam for a few more minutes.

Notes

• Rinse rice before cooking for fluffier grains.
• Customize by adding bell peppers or a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
•  Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg