Cheesy Chicken and Rice

I love comfort food, especially this time of year. One of my faves...is a chicken, broccoli and cheese casserole, with rice. Oh so delicious and warm and awesome.

I always thought about making a similar, not as calorie rich, version. I finally did and excited to share it with you, because it turned out great. As always, I test it with the kids...it checked out.

So here is a one-pot meal your family will be sure to enjoy.

Ingredients:
2 cups cooked rice al dente (I opt for brown rice or basmati here)
2 chicken breasts, chopped in bite-size pieces
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
3 pieces of crushed garlic
1 teaspoon of non-hyrogenaged margarine
1 finely chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup to 1 cup finely chopped broccoli
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon hot sauce of choice
1/2 cup grated low fat cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

Sautee the chicken with the onion, garlic and margarine. 

Add the curry powder and hot sauce to the chicken and continue to sautee until the chicken is fully cooked.

Add the peppers and broccoli, cover and let cook for about 3-5 minutes (do not overcook or let the veggies go soggy). 

Add the whole milk and allow everything to simmer.

Mix in the cooked rice and allow to simmer until all the liquid is absorbed. At this point, mix in the cheddar cheese and salt and pepper.

Turn the heat off and add green onions or any garnish of choice.

That's it...easy, cheesy, yummy goodness.

Tip:  For extra cheesy comfort food-like goodness, put into a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and more cheese. Then back at 350 until golden on top.