Cheesy Chicken and Rice
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and creamy cheese sauce with fluffy rice. It’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or saucepan
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Lid for the skillet
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice white or brown
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and season with paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the cooked rice and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to merge.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste if necessary, then cover and let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a healthier twist, you can use brown rice and add more vegetables.
This dish can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop if you have leftovers.
Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or extra spices for added flavor.