One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup? This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is the perfect solution. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to make this delightful meal, complete with tips and variations to suit your tastes.

What is One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a convenient, all-in-one meal that combines protein, vegetables, and grains in a single skillet. The chicken is cooked with garlic and onions, then combined with rice and broth to simmer until tender. Broccoli and cheese are added towards the end to create a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner.

Ingredients List for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb (about 4) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Brown Rice: Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice. Note that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional broth.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Add it towards the end of cooking.
• Vegan Version: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives.
• Additional Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra color and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice involves several simple steps. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
   • Chop the broccoli into florets.
   • Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Cook the Rice:
   • Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and onion mixture.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add the Broccoli:
   • Once the rice is almost done, add the broccoli florets on top of the rice. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
6. Combine and Add Cheese:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and broccoli.
   • Pour in the milk or heavy cream and mix well.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the chicken, chop the broccoli, and mince the garlic. This makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season and brown the diced chicken in a skillet until fully cooked, then set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Sauté the onion and garlic in the same skillet until fragrant and translucent.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, followed by chicken broth. Simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, cover, and cook until tender.

Step 6: Combine and Add Cheese

Return the chicken to the skillet, add milk or cream, and top with cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s done to avoid dryness.
2. Undercooking the Rice: Ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender before adding the broccoli.
3. Not Steaming the Broccoli: Adding the broccoli towards the end and covering the skillet helps it steam and become tender.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a restaurant-quality presentation, follow these serving tips to impress your guests:

• Garnish Generously: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color.
• Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Use Stylish Dishware: Present the meal in a large skillet or a deep serving dish to showcase the cheesy goodness.

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice hot from the skillet, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a light vegetable side. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a bowl of soup or a warm loaf of crusty bread.

Presentation Ideas for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Elevate your dining experience with these presentation ideas:

• Layer and Garnish: Arrange the chicken, rice, and broccoli neatly in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese and fresh parsley.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of elegance.
• Use Colorful Vegetables: Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables like red bell peppers or carrots to make the dish visually appealing.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the ingredients in advance to save time when cooking.
• Double the Recipe: Make a double batch and save leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli? A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Add it directly to the skillet without thawing, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I substitute the cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish in the oven? A: Yes, you can transfer the ingredients to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted.

Q: Can I use brown rice? A: Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional broth.

Conclusion

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a flavorful and convenient dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Follow our step-by-step guide, avoid common mistakes, and use our serving tips to create a meal that's as visually appealing as it is delicious. Try this recipe and enjoy the comforting flavors of One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice at your next meal. Bon appétit!

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