One pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice is creamy, cheesy comfort food made from scratch with no canned soup. Chicken, rice and broth cook together in one pan, then broccoli steams on top and cheddar melts in at the end.
It feeds four for about $7.86, roughly $1.97 a serving, and it is ready in about 40 minutes.
Better than the boxed version, and a full dinner
- Rice cooks right in seasoned broth with the chicken, so it soaks up all the flavor.
- Frozen broccoli is cheap and steams on top in the last few minutes.
- Real cheddar melts into a creamy sauce without any canned soup.
Tips for the best cheesy chicken broccoli rice
- Keep the lid on while the rice simmers so the steam cooks it evenly.
- If the rice is still firm, add 2 tablespoons of water and cook 3 minutes more.
- Stir the cheese in off the heat so it melts smoothly.
- Use an instant read thermometer and check the USDA safe minimum internal temperature chart to know exactly when meat is done.
Ingredients for cheesy chicken broccoli rice and easy swaps
- Chicken breast: Cut into bite size pieces so it cooks through with the rice. Thighs work too.
- Long grain white rice: It cooks evenly in the broth. Do not use instant rice, which turns mushy.
- Frozen broccoli: It is cheap, already cut and steams right on top of the rice.
- Sharp cheddar: Sharp cheddar has the most flavor. Shred it yourself for the smoothest melt.
What cheesy chicken broccoli rice costs to make
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast | $3.00 |
| 1 tbsp olive oil | $0.10 |
| 1 tsp garlic powder | $0.08 |
| 1 tsp onion powder | $0.08 |
| 1 tsp salt | $0.02 |
| ½ tsp black pepper | $0.03 |
| 1 cup long grain white rice | $0.40 |
| 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth | $0.75 |
| 12 oz frozen broccoli florets | $1.50 |
| 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar | $1.80 |
| ¼ cup milk | $0.10 |
Prices are estimates based on average US grocery prices for the amount used. Your total will vary by store and region.
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium high heat. Brown the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in the rice and broth and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Scatter the broccoli on top, cover again and cook 5 to 7 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the cheddar and milk until creamy, then season to taste.
Notes
How to make one pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice step by step
Brown the chicken
Season the chicken and brown it in oil for 4 to 5 minutes.
Simmer the rice
Add the rice and broth, bring to a boil, cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
Steam the broccoli
Add the broccoli on top, cover and cook 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F.
Make it cheesy
Turn off the heat and stir in the cheddar and milk until creamy.
Easy cheesy chicken broccoli rice variations
- Leftover chicken: skip browning and stir in 2 cups of cooked chicken with the broccoli.
- Veggie: add a cup of frozen peas and carrots with the broccoli.
- Spicy: add a pinch of cayenne or use pepper jack cheese.
More cheap dinners like this
- Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Rice: A dump-and-go dinner of tender chicken and creamy rice that feeds four for about $1.60 a serving.
- Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas: Juicy chicken and charred peppers roasted on one pan in 30 minutes, about $2.10 a serving.
- One Pot Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta: Pasta cooked right in its sauce for an easy vegetarian dinner at about $1.30 a serving.
Want more ideas? Browse all of our one pan recipes.
What to serve with one pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice
- A side salad
- Roasted carrots
- Dinner rolls
Storing and reheating cheesy chicken broccoli rice
In the fridge
Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 4 days.
In the freezer
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
Microwave with a splash of milk or broth, stirring halfway, until steaming hot.
For more detail on safe storage times, see the USDA guidance on leftovers and food safety.
Frequently asked questions about cheesy chicken broccoli rice
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but simmer it for about 40 minutes and add ½ cup extra broth.
Can I use fresh broccoli?
Yes. Cut it into small florets and add it at the same time.
Is it freezer friendly?
Yes. Freeze portions, then reheat with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
