Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game? Dive into the comforting world of "Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Over Rice," a dish that promises to be both a crowd-pleaser and a time-saver! With tender shredded chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce all atop fluffy rice, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up in just 40 minutes. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a hearty meal, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to bring warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table with this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the rice according to package instructions, using either a rice cooker or stovetop method. Set aside and keep warm.
- If using raw chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, let rest for 5 minutes, then shred using two forks.
- Steam the broccoli florets in a steamer basket or microwave for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup with shredded chicken. Mix thoroughly to ensure chicken is evenly coated.
- Add steamed broccoli florets to the chicken and soup mixture, gently stirring to combine.
- Spread the warm rice evenly across a serving platter or individual plates.
- Top the rice with the chicken and broccoli mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your creamy chicken and broccoli dish.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: For the best texture, rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This will help achieve fluffy grains that won’t clump together.
- Chicken Cooking Method: If you’re short on time, consider using rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut. Just shred it and mix it with the cream of chicken soup!
- Broccoli Brightness: To retain the vibrant green color of your broccoli, avoid overcooking it. Steaming for just 3-4 minutes will keep it tender-crisp and visually appealing.
- Cheese Melting Magic: For an extra cheesy experience, try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack along with cheddar for a flavorful twist.
- Seasoning to Taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste as you go, and adjust the seasonings to suit your palate for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Make It a Meal: Add some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also serve this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover Love: This dish keeps well, so feel free to make a larger batch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and simply reheat before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
