Lunch & Dinner

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 packet French onion soup mix; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 2 cups long-grain rice; 1 ½ cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese, divided; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon sea salt; 3 cups chicken broth; 2 cans of condensed chicken soup; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast; Cooking oil spray; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

Martha Adams March 21, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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If there’s one dish that seems to wrap around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, it’s cheesy chicken and rice. It’s a meal that can easily make its way into your regular dinner rotation, regardless of if you’re cooking for a family or whipping up a quick solo meal. It’s so adaptable that paired with the right sides or alternative ingredients, it can be a new adventure every time you make it.

So, let’s dive in!

What Pairs Well with Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, let’s discuss some side dishes that can complement this creamy, cheesy delight.

Steamed Broccoli: The slight crunch and bit of bitterness from steamed broccoli create a perfect contrast. Plus, the green color brightens your plate.

Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love tearing into a piece of garlic bread? Its savory flavor and soft, buttery texture make for an ideal pairing.

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings a refreshing crunch and a bit of tanginess that lightens up the entire meal experience.

With those suggestions in mind, let’s jump into the introduction!

What is Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

At its core, cheesy chicken and rice is a one-pot meal that combines tender chicken cooked until juicy, rice that absorbs all the flavors, and a generous amount of cheese that makes everything creamy and comforting. It’s one of those satisfying meals that fills the belly and warms the soul.

Why This Recipe Works?

Easy Preparation: You can easily throw everything into a pot and let it simmer. There’s minimal chopping required, which makes it perfect when you’re pressed for time.

Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken broth, garlic powder, and cheese creates a flavor explosion. These ingredients meld beautifully to enhance the overall taste.

Flexible Ingredients: You can adapt it based on what’s handy in your kitchen. Got some leftover veggies? Toss them in! Want to switch out the chicken for tofu? Go for it!

Comforting Feel: The melty cheese combined with the creamy texture of the rice creates a nostalgic vibe. It reminds you of home-cooked meals and holidays, no matter the occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

1 packet French onion soup mix
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 cups long-grain rice
1 ½ cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon sea salt
3 cups chicken broth
2 cans of condensed chicken soup
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast
Cooking oil spray
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

These ingredients create a melty, creamy blend that you won’t be able to resist.

How To Make Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preparation

Start by spraying a large skillet or pot with cooking oil. Heat it over medium heat. While the cast iron or non-stick pan warms up, take the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once your pan is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in it. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid rushing this step; let those flavors develop. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture

In the same pot, add the French onion soup mix, garlic powder, rice, chicken broth, and condensed chicken soup. Stir it well and bring the mixture to a light simmer. This is key; the flavors need to infuse.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once the rice has absorbed most of the liquid—about 15-18 minutes—fold in the chicken pieces along with 1 cup of the grated cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Once everything has melded together, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. You can even pass it under the broiler for a couple of minutes for an extra bubbly finish. Garnish with fresh parsley before you dig in.

Tips & Tricks

Rice Type Matters: Use long-grain rice for a fluffier outcome. Avoid sticky rice; it can make everything too gooey.

Broth Selection: Homemade broth is best, but store-bought will work fine. Just be mindful of salt levels.

Resting Period: Let the cooked chicken rest before cutting. This keeps it juicy.

Watch the Heat: Keep simmering low to avoid scorching the bottom of the pot.

Customize: Feel free to add in seasonal veggies, like peas or corn, to brighten up the dish.

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

Leftovers are the icing on the cake. To store cheesy chicken and rice, let it cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to bring back that creamy texture.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Chicken: Use turkey breast or even canned chicken in a pinch.

Rice: Quinoa or farro work excellently as substitutes. Both add an interesting twist to the dish.

Cheese: If sharp Cheddar isn’t available, try Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a slightly different flavor tone.

Condensed Chicken Soup: You can replace this with cream of mushroom or, for a healthier option, Greek yogurt. Just stir in a little extra chicken broth to keep the consistency.

Conclusion

Cheesy chicken and rice isn’t just a meal; it’s a remedy for long days and cold nights. It delivers comfort and familiarity, wrapped in simple, accessible ingredients. In a culinary world filled with trends and fads, this dish stands out for its satisfying simplicity.

With each bite, you receive not just flavor, but memories of home and happiness. So dust off that old recipe card or bookmark this article, and get cooking! You might find yourself in love with this dish, just as I was on that fateful first night. Enjoy!

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Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 794 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

I vividly remember the first time I made cheesy chicken and rice. It wasn't just a recipe; it was an adventure. I stumbled upon it while rummaging through my cabinets, looking for what to make with some chicken breasts and rice I had lying around.

With just a few ingredients that I barely had to think about, I was able to whip up a dish that felt luxurious while being comfortable and familiar. That night, the cheesy chicken and rice not only filled my belly but also lifted my spirits.

This dish is a go-to for many, including busy families, seasoned home cooks, and even those just starting their culinary journey. This delightful combination of chicken, rice, and cheese meets all my criteria for a perfect dinner: simple, satisfying, and downright delicious.