One-Pot Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice

When it comes to comfort food that’s quick, wholesome, and family-approved, nothing beats a warm bowl of One-Pot Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice. This creamy, cheesy dish combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and fresh broccoli all cooked together in a single pot. Not only does it save you from washing a pile of dishes, but it also delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a student looking for meal prep ideas, or simply someone who loves a cozy, home-cooked dinner, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy goodness.
• Customizable: Swap broccoli for peas, spinach, or mixed veggies.
• Meal Prep Ready: Stays delicious when reheated for leftovers.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Cook chicken – Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics – In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add rice & broth – Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add broccoli & chicken – Stir in broccoli florets and return chicken to the pot. Cover again and cook for 5–7 minutes, until rice is tender and broccoli is cooked through.
5. Make it cheesy – Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and fully melted.
6. Serve & enjoy – Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot straight from the pot.

Tips & Variations

• Use brown rice for extra fiber (increase cooking liquid and simmer time).
• Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a gooey twist.
• Add a touch of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Meal prep friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

One-Pot Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice

A creamy, cheesy one-pot meal with chicken, broccoli, and rice – the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 lb chicken breast boneless, skinless, diced
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
• 2.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk whole or 2%
• 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, thawed
• 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.5 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional

Equipment

• Large pot or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add diced chicken, season, and cook until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Stir in uncooked rice, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add broccoli florets and return chicken to the pot. Cover and cook for 5–7 more minutes until rice and broccoli are tender.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream before stirring in the cheese. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.