Cheesy Chicken and Rice

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. The creamy cheese, tender chicken, and flavorful rice combine to make a hearty, satisfying dish everyone will love.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook in the skillet until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth
Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and both types of cheese (cheddar and Parmesan). Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. If using, add the dried thyme and dried parsley for extra flavor.

Step 5: Return the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your Cheesy Chicken and Rice as a complete meal or with a side of roasted vegetables.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

This dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for cozy family dinners!