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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

A hearty one-pot comfort food combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy melted cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.25 cup breadcrumbs optional for topping

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing spoons
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
  3. Cook chicken pieces in the skillet for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  5. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
  6. Reduce heat to low and add softened cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  7. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, creating a creamy sauce consistency.
  8. Stir in cooked rice, cooked chicken, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
  9. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
  11. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Notes

This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to maintain creaminess. Can be customized with different vegetables or cheese varieties.