Name: One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into one-inch pieces; ½ medium yellow onion, diced; 2 tbsp minced garlic; 2 cups broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup water; 2 cups uncooked extra long grain white rice; 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

If you’re craving a meal that’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor, you will absolutely adore this One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe. Imagine tender chunks of juicy chicken mingling with fluffy rice, bright green broccoli, and ooey-gooey sharp cheddar cheese—all cooked together in a single pot! It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want something satisfying without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A deep white pot with a red outside edge sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, on the right side, there are small pieces of cooked chicken with a light brown color mixed with soft, translucent white onions. On the left side, there is a pile of uncooked white rice grains. A clear measuring cup is tilted above the pot, pouring a pale yellow liquid over the rice. The scene shows a cooking process with clear textures of raw rice and cooked chicken pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to make magic happen here. Each add-in plays a special role: from the juicy chicken bringing protein and heartiness, to the vibrant broccoli adding freshness and crunch, to the cheesy finish that ties everything together with creamy, melty goodness.

Chicken breast (1 1/2 pound): Cut into one-inch pieces for quick, even cooking and tender bites every time.
Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): Provides a subtle fruity richness and helps soften the onions perfectly.
Yellow onion (½ medium): Diced finely to add a savory sweetness that forms the flavor base.
Minced garlic (2 tbsp): Adds aromatic warmth that elevates the entire dish beautifully.
Broccoli (2 cups): Cut into bite-sized pieces to add a lively green color and satisfying texture.
Chicken broth (2 1/2 cups): Enriches the rice with savory depth and keeps everything moist.
Water (½ cup): Helps balance the liquid for perfect rice cooking consistency.
Extra long grain white rice (2 cups): Gives you fluffy, separate grains that soak up all the flavors.
Shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): For that signature cheesy punch and creamy melt that makes this dish unforgettable.
Salt and pepper: To season everything just right and bring all the flavors together.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers with promise. Toss in the diced yellow onion and let it soften and become translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. The smell at this point is already inviting, setting the stage for what’s next. Then, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot. Cook until the chicken loses its pink color, usually 4 to 5 minutes, allowing it to develop a lovely golden surface that adds depth to the dish.

Step 2: Infuse Garlic and Add Rice and Liquids

Once your chicken is nicely seared, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one minute until fragrant. This step ensures the garlic’s bold flavor is alive but not overpowering. Then, scatter the uncooked rice evenly in the pot before pouring in the chicken broth and water. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. This gentle simmer is where the rice will begin absorbing all those scrumptious flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Rice and Incorporate Broccoli

Let the rice cook covered for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. This keeps the rice fluffy and the cooking even. After 15 minutes, remove the lid and stir the fresh broccoli into the pot. Cover once again and cook for another 7 to 8 minutes until the rice is tender and the broccoli is perfectly tender-crisp, preserving its vibrant color and nutrients.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Take the pot off the heat and stir in one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and beautifully coats the rice and chicken mixture. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover for a few minutes. This step lets the cheese melt atop the dish for that irresistible gooey layer that makes this One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe truly special. Serve it warm for maximum comfort and smiles.

How to Serve One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a wooden spoon lifting a scoop of a creamy rice dish that has three main layers: bright yellow melted cheese on top, small pieces of light beige cooked chicken, and bright green broccoli florets mixed throughout the rice. The rice looks soft and creamy, with a smooth texture blending with the melted cheese. The background is a white marbled texture, adding a clean and simple look. The focus is on the spoon full of the rice mixture, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this dish even further. Consider freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of green and mild flavor. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a surprising hint of warmth and color. These small touches make your meal feel extra cared for and restaurant-worthy in no time.

Side Dishes

While this recipe shines as a complete one pot meal, pairing it with easy sides can round out your feast. A crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the creamy richness, or a basket of crusty bread invites some serious cheese mopping action. Roasted root vegetables also complement the soft textures beautifully and add an extra layer of earthiness.

Creative Ways to Present

For something fun and family-friendly, serve the cheesy chicken rice and broccoli in individual ramekins or small bowls, then broil the top briefly to form a golden, bubbly crust. You can also turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers by spooning the mixture inside, topping with extra cheese, and baking until hot and melty. This recipe adapts well for creative plating that delights both eyes and taste buds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely as it sits, making the next meal just as rewarding. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh.

Freezing

This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe also freezes well for up to a month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, label with the date, and you’ll have a convenient, delicious meal ready to go. When freezing, it’s best to add any garnishes fresh after reheating to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the rice. Cover while reheating to keep moisture locked in and stir occasionally to heat evenly. The cheesy goodness will return, making every bite just as satisfying as the fresh version.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! You can swap the uncooked long grain white rice for brown rice; however, note that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust your cooking accordingly and keep an eye on the texture for the best results.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. While the cheesy flavor is a star here, using nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese can still provide a lovely creamy texture without dairy.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch. Add it toward the end of cooking as directed, but be mindful that frozen broccoli carries more moisture, which might affect the final texture slightly. Drain any excess water if needed before adding cheese.

What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

Feel free to customize! Bell peppers, peas, carrots, or mushrooms all pair beautifully with the chicken, rice, and cheese. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them along with the broccoli or sauté them with onions for deeper flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you love a little heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or sprinkle chopped jalapeños over the top before serving. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne powder with the chicken broth for a subtle spicy kick throughout the dish.

Final Thoughts

You have to try this One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe—it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, and maybe even a little happy chatter. It’s fast, fuss-free, and utterly delicious, making weeknight dinners feel way more special. Once you make it, I promise you’ll reach for it again and again when you want comfort food that tastes like it took hours but actually came together in just a half hour. Enjoy every cheesy, tender bite!

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One Pot Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need