Print

Cheesy Chicken and Rice

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a comforting, one-pan meal loaded with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s an easy, family-friendly dish that’s ready in under 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken & Rice:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For Garnish (Optional):

  • ¼ cup chopped green onions
  • ¼ cup crispy bacon bits

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:

  1. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Cook the Rice:

  1. In the same pan, sauté the onion for 2 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  2. Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, coating it in the flavors.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender.

3. Make it Cheesy:

  1. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and seasonings.
  2. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, stirring until combined.
  3. If using, stir in sour cream for extra creaminess.

4. Serve & Garnish:

  1. Top with green onions and bacon bits, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra veggies, add peas, broccoli, or bell peppers.
  • Use brown rice for a healthier twist (increase cooking time by 10 minutes).
  • Want it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce!

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/cheesy-chicken-and-rice/