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CHEESY CHICKEN AND RICE

Sana Umer
This cheesy chicken and rice is creamy, comforting, and full of flavour. Tender chicken and fluffy rice are cooked together with melted cheese, making it a quick, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook diced chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
  • Cook Rice: Add rice, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
  • Add Chicken & Cheese: Return chicken to the skillet and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  • Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Chicken can be cooked in advance; assemble with rice just before serving.
  • Customizing Flavor: Add bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Keyword cheesy comfort food, chicken and rice skillet, easy weeknight recipe, family-friendly dinner, one-pot chicken meal