Cheesy Broccoli Rice for Kids Recipe
This kid-approved Cheesy Rice recipe combines tender long grain rice cooked in flavorful low-sodium chicken broth with melted cheddar cheese and nutritious broccoli. Enhanced with garlic powder and butter for rich taste, it makes a creamy and comforting one-pot meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a wholesome family dinner or a tasty side dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice, rinsed (195g)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: a splash of milk or half and half
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Bring the low-sodium chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and allow to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the broth is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender to the bite. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Add flavor and broccoli: Stir in the melted butter, garlic powder, and chopped broccoli. Mix well to combine the flavors. Cover the pan again and continue cooking on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the broccoli through and blend the ingredients.
- Melt the cheese: Remove the lid, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts evenly throughout the rice mixture. For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or half and half, stirring well to incorporate. Serve warm as a hearty, cheesy dish kids will love.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes surface starch, preventing clumping and giving fluffier rice.
- Using low-sodium broth helps control the salt content for a healthier dish suitable for kids.
- You can substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli—just steam or chop finely before adding.
- The optional milk or half and half adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Feel free to customize the cheese by using mozzarella or a mild Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Keywords: cheesy rice, kid-friendly rice recipe, broccoli rice, easy cheesy side dish, quick family dinner, comfort food, stovetop rice dish
Find it online: https://reemcook.com/cheesy-broccoli-rice-for-kids-recipe/
