Description
A comforting one-skillet dish featuring tender chicken, rice, and broccoli enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (½ stick)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (2% dairy works best)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 ½ – 2 ¾ cups), plus more for topping
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen broccoli florets
- 12 ounces cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 ½ cups)
- 3 cups cooked rice (basmati, jasmine, or brown rice)
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the unsalted butter.
- Once the butter melts, sprinkle the flour over it and whisk continuously for 30 seconds.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly incorporate the milk, one cup at a time, whisking continuously after each addition until fully combined.
- Whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, mustard, thyme, paprika, and black pepper.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and allow the mixture to come to a boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
- Add the shredded cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the frozen broccoli, cooked chicken, and cooked rice. Stir until combined.
- Continue to cook for another 8-10 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the broccoli is heated through, and the rice is tender.
- Top with additional cheese, if desired, and cover for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Uncover the skillet and remove from heat. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
- Garnish with optional parsley or thyme leaves, cracked black pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken before adding it to the sauce. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
