Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Bowl – My Comfort Food Classic

Before we get cooking, I have to say—this one is personal. My mom used to make a version of this all the time, and just the smell of it takes me straight back to childhood dinners at the kitchen table. It’s simple, satisfying, and the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. We’re talking tender seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, melty cheese sauce that ties it all together. You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, with enough for leftovers tomorrow (if you can resist a second helping tonight!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy – Minimal prep, ready in 30 minutes.
Family-friendly – Everyone from kids to grandparents loves it.
Comfort food at its finest – Creamy, cheesy, and filling.
Great for leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day.

What It Tastes Like

Imagine a warm, cozy casserole—but served fresh in a bowl. The chicken is juicy with a little kick from Frank’s RedHot, the rice is soft and comforting, the broccoli adds freshness, and the Velveeta cheese sauce? That’s the silky, salty, melty magic that brings it all home.

Benefits of This Recipe

Balanced – Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one.
Budget-friendly – Pantry and freezer staples keep it affordable.
Customizable – Swap spices, cheese, or even the veggie.

Ingredients

3 thin chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt, pepper, onion powder (to taste)
1 packet ranch seasoning
A few shakes Frank’s RedHot
2 cups Minute Rice (uncooked)
1 bag frozen broccoli florets
16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
2–3 splashes milk
Extra black pepper (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

Air fryer
Microwave
Saucepan or rice cooker (optional if not using Minute Rice)
Large mixing bowl

Additions & Substitutions

Spice lovers – Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Cheese swap – Use cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of Velveeta.
Veggie variations – Swap broccoli for green beans, peas, or mixed veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep & season chicken – Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, ranch seasoning, and a few shakes of Frank’s RedHot. Mix well to coat.
Air fry the chicken – Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cook rice – Prepare 2 cups Minute Rice according to package instructions.
Steam broccoli – Microwave frozen broccoli florets until tender.
Make cheese sauce – In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cubed Velveeta and a couple splashes of milk. Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then cook another minute until smooth.
Assemble bowls – Start with a bed of rice, add broccoli, top with chicken, and pour the cheese sauce over everything. Finish with extra pepper if desired (and careful with that shaker! 🤣).

What to Serve With It

Garlic bread or dinner rolls
A fresh green salad
Sweet tea or lemonade

Tips for the Best Bowl

Double the cheese sauce if you like it extra creamy.
Don’t overcook the chicken—air fryer times can vary.
Mix it all together for a cheesy chicken-broccoli-rice mash-up.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep cheese sauce creamy.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Cook all components, store separately, and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I use fresh broccoli?
Absolutely—just steam or sauté until tender.

Can I make it without Velveeta?
Yes, use shredded cheese and melt it with a little butter and milk.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Bowl isn’t just food—it’s comfort in a bowl. It’s fast, filling, and tastes like home. Whether you’re making it for the whole family or just yourself, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

📌 If you make this, share a photo on Pinterest so I can see your version!
Nutritional Information (per serving): ~520 calories, 35g protein, 42g carbs, 20g fat (varies by portion).

Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Bowl – My Comfort Food Classic