This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.
If you’re looking for a cozy, cheesy dinner that comes together in one pan, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice will be your new go-to. It has everything you want in a comfort meal—tender chicken, fluffy rice, melty cheddar, and perfectly cooked broccoli—all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Buy block cheese and grate it yourself if you can—it melts much better!
A One Pot Meal to Add to Your Rotation
I’ve always loved the classic combination of broccoli and cheddar, and pairing it with juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice makes it even better.
It reminds me of a homemade, stovetop version of a broccoli cheddar casserole, but way easier to throw together on a busy weeknight. No oven required, no extra dishes to wash, just ridiculously creamy and cheesy flavor and 30 minutes.
It’s quick, easy, and always a family favorites. Just like white cheddar mac and cheese or one pot taco pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple and pantry-friendly, so you may already have everything on hand:
- Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts stay juicy and flavorful in this one-pan dish.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and deepen the flavors.
- Kosher salt, black pepper & garlic powder: A simple seasoning mix that enhances everything.
- Chicken broth: Cooking the rice in broth instead of water gives it tons of flavor.
- Long grain white rice: Cooks up fluffy and tender—perfect for soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
- Frozen broccoli: Thawed and chopped so it blends seamlessly into the dish.
- Cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Shred your own for the best melt.
- Milk or cream (optional): For an even creamier texture.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice
Step 1. Season & Sear the Chicken – Season the chicken and sear in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Step 2. Cook the Rice & Broccoli – Stir in rice and chopped broccoli. Bring to a boil, then place chicken on top, cover and cook simmer on low for 15-18 minutes.
Step 3. Add Cheese & Creaminess – Remove chicken and stir in shredded cheddar until melted. Add a splash of milk or cream for extra creaminess. Place chicken back on top, add more cheese, then serve hot!
Serving Tips
This dish is already a complete meal, but if you want to add a little something extra, try:
- 🥗 Crisp Side Salad – Something fresh like kale apple salad or shaved brussels sprout salad.
- 🥖 Garlic Bread – Because cheesy rice + buttery bread is always a good idea.
- 🥕 Roasted Vegetables – If you want even more veggies, try roasted mini peppers or crispy carrot fries.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
More One-Pot Meals
- Creamy cajun chicken and sausage pasta
- One skillet lemon chicken orzo
- One pot Hawaiian chicken
- Spanish chicken and rice
- Creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice
Save this Recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast pounded to even thickness
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/4 cups long grain white rice uncooked
- 12 oz frozen broccoli thawed and roughly chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Milk or cream to taste optional
Instructions
- Drizzle the chicken breast with 1 Tablespoon of olive oil and coat both sides evenly in salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes without moving them then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The chicken should be a deep golden brown. Remove to a clean plate or cutting board. It does not need to be cooked all the way through.1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, 2 Tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to remove the brown bits.2 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- Stir in the rice and broccoli and a pinch of kosher salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then place the chicken breasts back on top of the rice mixture. Then reduce to low heat, cover the skillet and cook for 15-18 minutes. Stop to check the rice 1-2 times throughout to ensure the bottom is not burning.1 1/4 cups long grain white rice, 12 oz frozen broccoli
- When it’s done, remove the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest while you mix in the cheese. Add the shredded cheese to the rice and mix until melted. Add a splash of milk or heavy cream for a creamier texture. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, Milk or cream to taste
- Slice or cut the chicken into cubes and add it back to the pot. Serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
