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
Instructions
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Storage: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes