Best Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Recipe

Cheesy chicken broccoli rice bakes tender chicken, broccoli, and rice in a creamy cheddar sauce for the perfect one-dish family dinner. High in protein and endlessly comforting, it's a weeknight staple.

Cook 50 min Difficulty NORMAL 370 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • boneless skinless chicken breast 1.5 lbs
  • uncooked long grain white rice 1 cup
  • broccoli florets 3 cups
  • shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups
  • low-sodium chicken broth 2 cups
  • milk 0.75 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • butter 2 tbsp
  • onion 0.5 cup
  • garlic 2 cloves
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 35 g 38%
Protein 27 g 29%
Fat 13 g 33%
Serving size 320g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy cleanup.

  2. 2

    Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for 1 minute to toast lightly, then remove the skillet from heat.

  4. 4

    In the prepared baking dish, evenly layer the rice mixture, raw chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces, chicken broth, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.

  5. 5

    Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove from oven, stir well, and add broccoli florets. Re-cover and bake for 15 more minutes until the rice is almost tender.

  6. 6

    Uncover, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the rice is fully cooked.

  7. 7

    Let stand for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to firm up.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe?
The foundational ingredients are boneless skinless chicken breast for lean protein, long grain white rice for comforting texture, broccoli florets for freshness and color, and sharp cheddar cheese which drives the dish’s creamy, savory richness. Together, these elements define the classic flavor and appeal of this family favorite.
Q. How do I prevent the rice from being undercooked or mushy?
Make sure to use raw, uncooked long grain rice and evenly distribute it in the casserole. Toasting the rice briefly with onion and garlic before baking helps with texture and flavor. Cover tightly with foil during the initial bake to trap steam and cook the rice consistently, then stir and add broccoli midway so it doesn’t overcook. Always let the dish rest after baking for the perfect fluffy bite.
Q. What is the calorie and nutrition breakdown per serving?
Each serving (320g) contains approximately 370 kcal, with 35g carbohydrates (38% of calories), 27g protein (29%), and 13g fat (33%). This provides a high-protein and balanced one-dish meal suitable for both satisfying and nutritious family dinners.
Q. When should the cheese be added for best results?
Add the shredded cheddar cheese in the final 10–12 minutes of baking, uncovered, so it melts evenly and forms a golden, bubbly top. This timing ensures the cheese doesn’t dry out or separate, giving you a creamy finish.
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