Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls (Meal Prep)

Savor the Comforting Delights of Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls (Meal Prep)

Embark on a hearty flavor journey with this Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls recipe, combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, fluffy rice, and a lightened-up cheddar cheese sauce that feels indulgent without being too heavy. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, these bowls deliver warmth, satisfaction, and balance in every bite.

Whether you’re packing weekday lunches or serving up a cozy weeknight meal, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something wonderfully comforting. The cheesy sauce ties everything together, creating a meal that’s both wholesome and delicious.

Ideal for busy schedules or gatherings where comfort food is a must, this recipe captures the essence of homemade goodness while still being quick to prepare. Ready to fill your kitchen with the smell of melted cheddar and roasted chicken? Let’s dive into this straightforward and rewarding recipe.

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Flavorful and Creamy: Your New Go-To Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls

This Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls recipe doesn’t just bring together classic flavors; it enhances them with a silky cheese sauce that coats every bite. The broccoli retains a slight crisp, the chicken is juicy and seasoned, and the rice or quinoa provides a filling base. Not just another meal prep idea, this recipe is a step toward delicious organization that makes eating well easy.

With minimal effort, you can create bowls that reheat beautifully and taste just as fresh the next day. Plus, the balance of protein, veggies, and grains ensures a satisfying dish that fuels you throughout the day.

Here’s how you can bring together these textures and flavors, with tips to make sure each bowl turns out as good as the first.

Serving suggestions: Serve over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Top with extra cheddar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls

1. Season Generously: Salt and pepper both the chicken and broccoli to ensure each component has flavor on its own.
2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep a little bite in the broccoli to prevent it from turning mushy when reheated.
3. Use Sharp Cheddar: A sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, so you can use less cheese without sacrificing taste.
4. Meal Prep Like a Pro: Store the chicken, broccoli, and rice separately if you prefer, then combine with sauce right before serving.
5. Reheat Gently: Warm the bowls on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

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Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls Recipe

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Equipment: Large sauté pan, saucepan, whisk, food storage containers

With these Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls, your kitchen will become a comforting haven of flavor and nourishment, echoing the joy of homemade meals.

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Ingredients:

Meal Prep Bowls:

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Kosher salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 heads broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 batch cheddar cheese sauce (see below)
• 3 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese, for topping

Cheddar Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
• 1/2 cup warmed milk
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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Directions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through at 165°F. Transfer to a plate, rest for 5 minutes, then dice.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add broccoli, season lightly, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender yet crisp. Transfer to a plate.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in the same pan or a saucepan. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Whisk in flour, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in stock, then add milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until thickened. Add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Toss the diced chicken and broccoli with the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately over rice or quinoa. For meal prep, portion into containers and top with extra cheddar.
5. Storage: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

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Ready to Relish!

This Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls recipe is the ultimate comfort meal for your busy week. The creamy cheese sauce pairs perfectly with seasoned chicken and fresh broccoli, all layered over a hearty base of rice. Each bite offers warmth, flavor, and the satisfaction of homemade cooking.

Whether you serve it fresh for dinner or enjoy it as a prepped lunch, this dish proves that meal prep can be both practical and delicious. With just a little time, you can enjoy comforting bowls that make every mealtime feel special.

Storage Solutions

• Refrigerator: Store assembled bowls for up to 4 days in airtight containers.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with extra sauce.
• Quick Reheat Tip: Add a splash of milk or stock before reheating to keep the cheese sauce smooth and creamy.

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