One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that you can whip up on busy weeknights, this One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is the perfect solution! Made with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish is as satisfying as it is convenient. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you’ll love how quick and tasty this meal turns out. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pan, making it an ideal recipe for families, meal prep, or a cozy night in. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and more!

What is One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

This hearty dish brings together tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rice, fresh broccoli, and melty cheese, all cooked in one pan. The beauty of a one-pan meal lies in its simplicity: fewer dishes to wash and an easy process from start to finish. It's a comforting, balanced meal with protein from the chicken, veggies from the broccoli, and carbohydrates from the rice. The cheese ties everything together for a rich, indulgent flavor. If you’re short on time or don’t want to fuss over multiple dishes, this recipe is a lifesaver.

Ingredients List for One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 ½ cups of chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
• 2 cups of broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon of paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (or your preferred seasoning blend)
• 1 tablespoon of butter (optional, for extra richness)

Ingredient List for One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

To ensure the best results, it’s crucial to use fresh, high-quality ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Make sure to cut them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the rice.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is preferred, as it cooks up fluffy and doesn’t become mushy. You can substitute with brown rice, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and may require additional broth.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a satisfying crunch and fresh taste. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it beforehand and add it in toward the end of cooking so it doesn’t get too soft.
• Cheese: Cheddar and Parmesan are a classic combo that provides both sharpness and creaminess. Feel free to use a cheese blend or add mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Seasonings: Italian seasoning and paprika add depth of flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.

Substitutions and Variations

This One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways you can customize it to your preferences:

• Substitute chicken with turkey or even ground beef: If you don’t have chicken on hand, this recipe works great with turkey, ground beef, or even shrimp.
• Use quinoa or cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, swap the white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to toss in other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dish some heat.
• Use a different cheese: Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese can work beautifully if you want a different cheese flavor profile.
• Herbs and spices: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh burst of flavor at the end.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through how to cook this delicious One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice step by step:

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat the oil: In a large, deep skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
4. Toast the rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir to coat it with the oil, onions, and garlic. Let the rice cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
5. Add broth: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Cook the rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the rice cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. Add broccoli: Once the rice is nearly cooked, stir in the broccoli florets. Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
8. Return the chicken to the pan: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and stir everything together.
9. Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until everything is well-combined and the cheese is melted and gooey. If you want the dish extra cheesy, feel free to sprinkle more cheese on top.
10. Serve: Remove from heat, give it one final stir, and enjoy your One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice!

How to Cook One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Season and sauté the chicken: Season your chicken well with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté the chicken until golden brown.
2. Sauté aromatics: Onion and garlic bring flavor. Add them in the same pan to build a flavor base.
3. Toast the rice: Lightly toasting the rice before adding liquid enhances its flavor and helps it cook evenly.
4. Simmer and steam: The key is to simmer the rice gently so that it absorbs the broth while cooking to perfection.
5. Add vegetables and cheese: Broccoli goes in once the rice is almost done to keep it from getting soggy. Then, add cheese for creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the rice: Be mindful of the cooking time for rice. Check it frequently to avoid it becoming mushy.
• Adding broccoli too early: If you add the broccoli too soon, it may get overcooked and lose its bright green color.
• Not seasoning enough: Remember to season throughout the process. A well-seasoned dish will be far more flavorful.

Serving and Presentation Tips

While this dish is designed for simplicity, you can elevate the presentation with a few simple touches:

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cheese garnish: Add extra shredded cheese on top just before serving to create a melted cheese layer.
• Use a colorful plate: Bright plates can make this dish look even more inviting.

How to Serve One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

This dish can be served as a standalone meal since it contains protein, veggies, and carbs. However, you can pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for an even heartier dinner.

Presentation Ideas for One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

To make this dish visually appealing:

• Use a cast iron skillet: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Layer the cheese: Top with a final layer of cheese and broil for a few minutes to get a golden crust.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a pop of green and elevate the overall look.

One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe Tips

• Prep everything before starting: Have your ingredients chopped and ready to go. This ensures smooth cooking.
• Use a deep skillet: A wide, deep skillet ensures even cooking and enough space for the ingredients to mix well.
• Add the cheese gradually: Stir the cheese in slowly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time and add more broth as needed.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Q: Can I freeze this meal?
A: Yes, you can freeze this recipe for up to 3 months. Store in an airtight container and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, comforting meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. With a delicious combination of tender chicken, cheesy rice, and crisp-tender broccoli, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own! Try it tonight and enjoy a satisfying, easy-to-clean-up dinner that the whole family will love.

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