Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, filling, and packed with comforting flavors. Everything cooks in one pot, making it convenient and time-saving. The combination of cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice creates a rich and creamy dish that the whole family will enjoy. It’s also great for leftovers and meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breast or thighs
rice
broccoli florets
cheddar cheese
chicken broth
milk
garlic
onion
olive oil or butter
salt
black pepper
Directions
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on the outside.
Stir in the rice and cook briefly to toast it slightly.
Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cover and cook until the rice is nearly tender.
Add the broccoli florets and continue cooking until the broccoli is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 4 people.
Prep time: 10 to 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 to 30 minutes
Total time: about 35 to 45 minutes
Variations
You can use brown rice for a healthier option, though it will require a longer cooking time. Swap cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or a blend for different flavors. Add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the rice and broccoli may change slightly.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works well.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just add it toward the end of cooking.
What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice works best for even cooking.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.
Why is my rice undercooked?
It may need more liquid or additional cooking time.
Can I add spices?
Yes, paprika, garlic powder, or herbs can enhance flavor.
How do I keep it creamy?
Add a little extra milk or cheese when reheating.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well for meal prep.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s a comforting and mild-flavored dish kids often enjoy.
Conclusion
One pot broccoli cheddar chicken and rice is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that combines simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying dish. With its creamy texture and hearty flavors, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for busy days or cozy dinners.
PrintOne Pot Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice
This one pot broccoli cheddar chicken and rice is a creamy, comforting meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and cheesy broccoli all in one dish. It is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for an easy family-friendly dinner with minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on the outside.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the rice is nearly tender.
- Add the broccoli florets, cover again, and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Notes
- Long-grain white rice works best for even cooking and texture.
- Frozen broccoli can be used and should be added toward the end of cooking.
- Brown rice may be substituted, but it will need more liquid and a longer cooking time.
- Rotisserie or other cooked chicken can be used to save time.
- Add carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.
- This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the rice and broccoli may soften slightly after thawing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
