Creamy Cheddar Chicken and Rice

Name: Creamy Cheddar Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Casseroles Recipes

When I made Creamy Cheddar Chicken and Rice for the first time, I was blown away by how comforting and satisfying it turned out. The rich, cheesy flavor blended perfectly with tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a dish that felt both indulgent and wholesome. I love how it all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or something special, this dish never disappoints, and it's sure to become my family's favorite.

Created by

The Chefsamuelbakes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-21T16:12:20.957Z

I remember the first time I combined creamy cheddar cheese with tender chicken and fluffy rice. The combination was so rich and comforting, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The key was to let the rice absorb all the flavors as it cooked alongside the chicken, resulting in a dish that was not only filling but also packed with cheesy goodness.

One tip I learned along the way is to use freshly grated cheddar for that ultimate creaminess. Pre-packaged cheese often has anti-caking agents that can alter the texture. Using freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and makes a world of difference in the final dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich and savory flavor balanced with cheddar cheese
Easy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Cheddar Chicken and Rice.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the cooked rice and chicken broth. Let this mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.

Make it Creamy

Slowly stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

This simple recipe is sure to impress!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers when cooking the chicken. You can also substitute brown rice for an even heartier dish, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to about 45 minutes for brown rice to fully cook.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use a lower-fat cheese and replace heavy cream with milk or a plant-based alternative.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it in a skillet on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition and color!