If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces mingling with fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, all enveloped in a luscious blanket of melted cheddar cheese and brightened by colorful veggies. It’s a simple yet soul-satisfying dish that hits all the right notes for weeknight meals, family dinners, or whenever you want something utterly delicious without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in creating the creamy, flavorful magic of this dish. From the hearty chicken to the melted cheddar, every item is here to build layers of taste and texture you’ll love.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Diced to cook quickly and stay tender throughout.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing chicken and developing a beautiful golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with subtle sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out every flavor.
- 1 cup uncooked white rice: The creamy base that soaks up all the delicious juices.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Gives the rice and chicken a rich, savory backbone.
- 1 cup milk: Creates that signature creamy texture everyone loves.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that makes the dish irresistibly cheesy.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: Adds color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For extra richness and silkiness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish to brighten the final dish.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken and season it generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s beautifully browned and nearly cooked through. This step is where the foundational flavors really start to build, so don’t rush it.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Once the chicken looks fantastic, stir in the uncooked rice. Toast the rice with the chicken for 1–2 minutes to add a lovely nutty undertone, which elevates the whole dish in ways you’ll notice and appreciate.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it gently simmer for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed. This simmering is crucial because the rice absorbs all those flavors, becoming creamy and perfect.
Step 4: Cook Vegetables
Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, mixing them through the rice and chicken. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are warmed through but still vibrant. This adds color, sweetness, and texture to the dish, making every bite interesting.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese and Butter
Turn off the heat and gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese along with the optional butter. Stir until everything melts together into a cheesy, creamy dream. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The cheese makes this dish truly sing, bringing that rich, gooey comfort we all crave.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a pop of green and a fresh, herby note that balances the richness. If you want to mix things up, a little crispy fried onion or a dash of smoked paprika can also make excellent garnishes.
Side Dishes
This dish shines wonderfully as a standalone meal, but if you want to round things out, consider a crisp garden salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for some crunch. A crusty piece of garlic bread on the side would soak up any leftover cheesy goodness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this cheesy chicken and rice recipe inside hollowed-out bell peppers or small ramekins for individual portions. You can also layer it in a baked casserole dish topped with extra cheese and broil it to get a bubbly, golden crust that’s absolutely irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight, making it a great option for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, too! Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to two months. Just be sure the rice cools completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it feels too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar provides a classic flavor, you can substitute or mix in cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a bit of Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
Is it necessary to use uncooked rice, or can I use pre-cooked rice?
This recipe works best with uncooked rice as it simmers and absorbs the liquids for maximum flavor. Using pre-cooked rice might result in a mushy texture, so it’s not recommended here.
Can I add more vegetables to make it healthier?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in broccoli florets, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just keep in mind the cooking times so all ingredients finish perfectly together.
What is the best cut of chicken for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for quick cooking and tender bites, but chicken thighs also add a richer flavor if you prefer juicier meat.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can swap the milk with coconut or almond milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly but will still be delicious and creamy.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, your new go-to comfort food classic: a Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe that’s easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and perfectly cheesy. I can’t wait for you to try it out and see how effortlessly this dish becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, creamy one-pot dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Tender diced chicken is cooked with aromatic garlic and onion powders, then simmered with rice, chicken broth, and milk to create a rich base. Frozen peas and carrots add a pop of color and sweetness, while shredded cheddar cheese melts through for savory creaminess. A touch of butter and fresh parsley finish the dish beautifully. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a kid-friendly, hearty meal that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Protein and Meat
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Vegetables and Add-ins
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
Dairy
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and mostly cooked through.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the uncooked white rice with the chicken and cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the rice lightly, enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate vegetables: Add the frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables) to the skillet and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
- Add cheese and butter: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter, if using, mixing until melted and the dish becomes creamy.
- Season and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a quicker option, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking diced chicken from scratch.
- Add a spoonful of cream cheese for extra creaminess and richness.
- Top with crispy fried onions for a crunchy texture contrast.
- This dish can easily be customized by swapping vegetables or using different cheese types like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
