Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that brings together chicken, rice, and a generous dose of cheese. The Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those chilly winter nights when I crave warmth and satisfaction. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; it was a hectic weekday evening, and I needed something quick yet delicious. As the aroma of melting cheddar filled the air, my family gathered around the table, and we couldn’t wait to dig in. This meal not only fed our bellies but also nourished our souls. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way it brings everyone together.

Ingredients Required for Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice

The ingredients for the Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice are not just staples in many households, but they also work harmoniously together. Each ingredient brings something valuable to the table, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The combination of tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, and rich cheddar cheese makes this recipe a standout.

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed: A lean protein that forms the base of this dish.
• 1/2 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups brown rice, raw: A healthy grain that serves as the perfect side.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Provides moisture and enhances the flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a hint of herbal freshness.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the other herbs beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that rounds out the flavor profile.
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach, tightly packed: Brings color and nutrients to the dish.
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar: The star of the show that makes the dish creamy and rich.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang.
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat bread crumbs: Provides a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.

Cooking Method for Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice

Cooking the Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice is a delightful experience that requires minimal effort. You’ll find that the steps are straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into how to create this cozy meal step by step.

1. Start by cubing the chicken breasts. Aim for even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. The size doesn’t have to be perfect, but try to keep them around one-inch cubes for the best results.
2. In a deep-sided skillet, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil and set it over medium-high heat. The oil will help sear the chicken, giving it a nice golden color. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken and cook, turning occasionally. Keep an eye on it until the pieces start to turn golden on all sides, which usually takes around five to seven minutes.
3. Next, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about five more minutes over medium-high heat until it becomes translucent and fragrant. The aroma will be a delightful hint of what’s to come. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onion to caramelize slightly enhances the dish’s flavor.
4. Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Sauté for about thirty seconds until the garlic releases its rich aroma; be careful not to burn it, as that can make it taste bitter.
5. Stir in the raw brown rice, chicken broth, and all of the dried herbs: basil, oregano, and thyme. Give everything a good stir. This will ensure that the rice is well-coated with the flavors. After stirring, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to let it simmer for about thirty minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
6. While the rice is cooking, roughly chop the fresh spinach. When the rice is just about done, stir the chopped spinach into the mixture. You want the spinach to wilt but still retain a vibrant green color, which should take just a couple of minutes.
7. Next, stir in the grated cheddar and sour cream, mixing everything well until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. The cheddar will add richness that’s simply irresistible.
8. Use the back of your spoon to spread the mixture flat in the skillet. This helps create an even layer for the topping.
9. Sprinkle the whole wheat bread crumbs on top of the dish. This is what gives it a lovely crunchy texture. Now, broil the dish for about four to seven minutes, keeping a close eye on it. You want it to turn golden brown and crispy.
10. Finally, once it’s done, serve the Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice hot. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Substitutions and Tips

Whether you want to tweak the recipe or have some handy tips, here’s what you need to know about the Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to retain the texture of the rice.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled dish before broiling. Simply wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before broiling.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side.
• Spice it Up: If you prefer a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when stirring in the cheese.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a flavor twist.

Perfect Pairings for Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice

When it comes to serving the Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic pairings and occasions to enjoy this delightful dish:

• Fresh Salad: Pair the dish with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the cheesy rice.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside some roasted seasonal vegetables for added nutrition. Vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers could work beautifully.
• Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for family dinners, especially during the colder months. It’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a larger batch for meal prepping. It keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Picnic Delight: The Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for outdoor picnics.
• Garnish Ideas: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added pop of color and flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice is truly a delightful dish that brings comfort and nourishment together in one simple recipe. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. I encourage you to give it a try; your family will thank you!

Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice

Craving something warm and satisfying? The Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice is your go-to comfort food! With tender chicken, rich cheese, and wholesome rice, this easy weeknight dinner comes together in one pot. Perfect for the whole family, it’s sure to be a hit tonight!

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Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 52 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces chicken breasts Cubed for even cooking.
• 1/2 cup onion Diced for flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic Minced for aromatic flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups brown rice Raw, adds texture.
• 3 cups chicken broth Provides moisture and flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil Adds herbal freshness.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Complements other herbs.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme A classic herb.
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach Tightly packed for nutrition.
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar Melts to create a creamy texture.
• 1 cup sour cream Adds creaminess.
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat bread crumbs For a crunchy topping.

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by cubing the chicken breasts. Aim for even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. The size doesn’t have to be perfect, but try to keep them around one-inch cubes for the best results.
2. In a deep-sided skillet, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil and set it over medium-high heat. The oil will help sear the chicken, giving it a nice golden color. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken and cook, turning occasionally. Keep an eye on it until the pieces start to turn golden on all sides, which usually takes around five to seven minutes.
3. Next, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about five more minutes over medium-high heat until it becomes translucent and fragrant. The aroma will be a delightful hint of what’s to come. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onion to caramelize slightly enhances the dish's flavor.
4. Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Sauté for about thirty seconds until the garlic releases its rich aroma; be careful not to burn it, as that can make it taste bitter.
5. Stir in the raw brown rice, chicken broth, and all of the dried herbs: basil, oregano, and thyme. Give everything a good stir. This will ensure that the rice is well-coated with the flavors. After stirring, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to let it simmer for about thirty minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
6. While the rice is cooking, roughly chop the fresh spinach. When the rice is just about done, stir the chopped spinach into the mixture. You want the spinach to wilt but still retain a vibrant green color, which should take just a couple of minutes.
7. Next, stir in the grated cheddar and sour cream, mixing everything well until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. The cheddar will add richness that’s simply irresistible.
8. Use the back of your spoon to spread the mixture flat in the skillet. This helps create an even layer for the topping.
9. Sprinkle the whole wheat bread crumbs on top of the dish. This is what gives it a lovely crunchy texture. Now, broil the dish for about four to seven minutes, keeping a close eye on it. You want it to turn golden brown and crispy.
10. Finally, once it’s done, serve the Cheesy One Pot Chicken and Rice hot. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to retain the texture of the rice.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled dish before broiling. Simply wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before broiling.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side.
• Spice it Up: If you prefer a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when stirring in the cheese.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a flavor twist.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.