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Cheesy Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Bowls (Meal Prep)

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.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Storage: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

  • Author: Sanji
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes