Cheesy Chicken And Rice Skillet
A creamy, cheesy chicken and rice skillet packed with comforting flavors, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners with rich Velveeta cheese and tender chicken breasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken breasts, cover, and cook 4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add condensed cream of chicken soup and water to the skillet and stir.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in uncooked Minute rice and 1 cup of Velveeta cheese.
- Place the cooked chicken on top of the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining Velveeta cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes until cheese is melted and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in your favorite spices or a bit of lemon juice before cooking. You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a mix of cheddar and cream cheese if desired. If you prefer brown rice, adjust the cooking time as it usually takes longer than Minute rice. This dish can also be made with leftover cooked chicken for a quicker prep.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Skillet pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving with some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a tropical fruit salad to brighten the flavors. It’s a comforting dish that complements many sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken And Rice Skillet contains roughly 431 calories, with 20g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1155mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to increase the cooking time significantly. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly. Make sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup, you can make a homemade version using equal parts of chicken broth and heavy cream, thickened with a roux of flour and butter. Alternatively, mushroom soup can provide a different flavor profile while still keeping the dish creamy.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and rice mixture, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little extra cheese for creaminess. This makes it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).