I can’t tell you how many times I’ve needed a quick, reliable dinner idea that didn’t taste like a shortcut. This Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice With Chicken Recipe is that lifesaver for me—and trust me, it’s not just fast, it’s packed with comforting flavor.

Whether I’m cooking for the family or just myself, this is the kind of dish I can whip up with simple ingredients that hit the spot every single time.

It brings together juicy chicken pieces, creamy cheddar broccoli rice, and fresh broccoli florets in one skillet. That means less cleanup, more flavor, and a lot more time to enjoy dinner instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice With Chicken Recipe

This Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice With Chicken Recipe is a warm, easy meal that blends creamy cheddar broccoli rice with juicy chicken breasts and fresh broccoli florets. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling, fast, and flavorful.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Course

Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: 4 servings
Calories Per Serving: ~350

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to get dinner on the table fast:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 package Knorr® Rice Sides™ – Cheddar Broccoli

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped small)
2 cups water
1/2 cup low-fat milk

1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Notes

Chicken breasts: I cut them into small chunks so they cook evenly and quickly.
Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice: This is the real star—it delivers the cheesy, savory flavor without extra effort.
Broccoli florets: If you use frozen, just thaw them a bit so they blend into the rice better.

Milk: This adds creaminess. You can use whole milk or any milk alternative too.
Cheddar cheese: Totally optional, but I like that extra cheesy kick.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook The Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes or until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan or the chicken won’t get that golden color we want.

Step 2: Make The Cheddar Broccoli Rice

In the same skillet, pour in 2 cups of water and 1/2 cup of milk. Stir in the Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice and bring it to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Broccoli Florets

When the rice is halfway done, toss in the broccoli florets. Stir and cover again. The steam will help the broccoli cook just right—not too mushy, not too crunchy.

Tip: Cut broccoli into small pieces so they blend well into the rice and cook faster.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, stir the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and give it all a good mix.

Let it sit for a minute or two off the heat so the cheese melts and everything thickens up a bit.

Tips For Perfect Rice Texture

If you’re like me, texture makes or breaks a dish. Here’s how I keep the cheddar broccoli rice creamy without turning it into mush:

Stick to the milk and water ratio in the recipe—too much liquid can make it soupy.

Simmer on low heat and cover the pan. That gentle steam keeps the rice fluffy.
Don’t lift the lid too often or it’ll lose moisture.

Nutrition Benefits

This dish is not just quick and tasty—it actually brings in some decent nutrition too:

Chicken breasts give you lean protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Broccoli florets add fiber, Vitamin C, and color to your plate.
Cheddar broccoli rice offers calcium and that cozy comfort-food vibe.

You’re using pantry staples, so there’s no need for overly processed extras.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

I usually serve this Broccoli Chicken Rice straight from the skillet—no shame in that! But if you want to round it out:

Add a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Serve with roasted carrots or steamed green beans on the side.
For drinks, go with a cold glass of iced tea or sparkling water with lime.

Want to fancy it up a bit? Top the dish with extra shredded cheese or a few red pepper flakes for heat.

Personal Touch / Expert Tips

This Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice Recipe is one I turn to when I don’t want to overthink dinner. Everything cooks in one pan, it tastes like comfort food, and it uses ingredients I usually already have.

Here are a few tips I’ve picked up after making it a dozen times:

Use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. Just shred and stir it in at the end.

Add a splash of hot sauce if you like a little kick.
Want to sneak in more veggies? Dice up carrots or zucchini with the broccoli.
You can swap out the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack—totally up to your mood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe With Frozen Broccoli?

Yes, just thaw it a bit and pat it dry before adding to the rice. It’ll still cook nicely and blend into the dish.

Is Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice Gluten-Free?

No, most Knorr Rice Sides contain wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. Always check the label for the most current info.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead Of Chicken Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and add more flavor. Just make sure they’re cooked through before combining with the rice.

Can I Double The Recipe For Meal Prep?

Definitely. This recipe scales well—just make sure your skillet is large enough. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and stir in sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas. It still tastes great with the cheesy broccoli rice.

Ready To Cook?

This Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice With Chicken Recipe is one of those meals I keep in my back pocket for nights when I’m tired, hungry, and want something fast. It’s full of flavor, simple to pull together, and always hits the spot.

If you try it, let me know how it turned out! Did you make any changes? Got a side dish that pairs perfectly? Drop your feedback in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!

And if you’re looking for more easy dinners like this, check out my other weeknight recipes on Naznin’s Kitchen.

Author

Recent Posts

Follow me

Naznin Aktar

Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe developer at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.