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Dinner for Kids: Easy Cheesy Chicken Rice Recipe - Comforting, Quick, and Kid-Approved

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small bite-size pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for warmth and color)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%) or half-and-half for extra creaminess
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild or medium), plus extra for topping
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Warm the pan: Set a large deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter and let it melt and coat the surface.
  2. Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Brown the chicken: Add the chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring once or twice, until lightly browned and mostly cooked through. Don’t worry if it’s slightly pink in the center—it will finish cooking with the rice. Remove to a plate if the pan is crowded, leaving any juices behind.
  4. Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pan. Stir for 30–60 seconds to lightly toast the grains in the leftover fat and flavor. This step helps the rice cook up fluffy and tasty.
  5. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the chicken (and any juices) to the pan if you set it aside.
  6. Simmer gently: Bring to a light simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid often—steam is your friend here.
  7. Stir in the creaminess: Remove the lid. Add milk (or half-and-half) and cream cheese if using. Stir gently over low heat until smooth and creamy, 1–2 minutes.
  8. Add veggies and cheese: Stir in the frozen peas or mixed vegetables. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and fold until melted and evenly combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Rest and serve: Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Top with a little extra cheese and sliced green onions if your kids like them. Spoon into bowls and serve warm.