One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

Are you craving a delicious, hearty meal that's simple to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is the perfect dinner solution for busy weeknights or a casual family meal. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and nutritious broccoli all bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce—all in just one pan! Read on to discover the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to make this fantastic dish a guaranteed hit at your table.

What is One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

This dish combines three staple ingredients—chicken, broccoli, and rice—into a one-pan meal that’s satisfying, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. By cooking everything in one pan, you save time on both preparation and clean-up, making it ideal for those nights when you want a no-fuss, family-friendly dinner. It’s rich in protein, fiber, and plenty of cheesy goodness, making it a balanced and flavorful meal that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients List for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Before we dive into the recipe, gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, diced into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup uncooked rice (long-grain white or jasmine rice)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ¼ cup cream or half-and-half (for extra creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for cooking)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, or any herbs you like)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can adjust it to suit your taste preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. Here are some substitution ideas:

• Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, you can use diced turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Rice Options: Feel free to use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice if you prefer a lower-carb option. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary, especially with brown rice, which takes longer to cook.
• Vegetables: Don’t have broccoli? Swap it out for other vegetables like spinach, green beans, or bell peppers. You can also use a mix of frozen veggies for added convenience.
• Cheese: While cheddar adds a nice sharpness, you can experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for a gourmet twist.
• Creaminess: To make the dish extra creamy, you can stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a tangy richness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of preparing this delicious one-pan meal. Follow these instructions to ensure a perfect dish every time.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Begin by chopping the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. If you're using fresh broccoli, cut it into small, uniform florets.
• Measure out your rice and other ingredients so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken pieces to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using), and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Don't worry if it's not fully cooked through at this stage; it will finish cooking later.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same pan, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 4: Add the Rice

• Stir in the uncooked rice, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the onions and garlic for 1-2 minutes. This helps toast the rice slightly, adding depth to the flavor.

Step 5: Add the Liquid and Cook the Rice

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme or any herbs you’re using. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a simmer, and lower the heat to medium-low.
• Cover the pan with a lid and let the rice cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 6: Add Broccoli and Chicken

• Once the rice is nearly done, stir the chicken back into the pan along with the broccoli florets. If you're using frozen broccoli, there's no need to thaw it first.
• Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the broccoli is tender but still crisp.

Step 7: Stir in the Cheese

• Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the cream or half-and-half. The cheese will melt into a creamy sauce, coating the rice, chicken, and broccoli beautifully.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Step 8: Add More Cheese and Melt

• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top of the dish, then cover the pan again for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt over the top.

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

Cooking this recipe is a breeze, but here are some extra pointers to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

1. Brown the chicken to lock in flavor and give the meat a nice texture.
2. Don’t skip sautéing the rice; this step helps to bring out the nutty flavor of the grains.
3. Keep an eye on the liquid: If the rice is absorbing the broth too quickly and still isn’t fully cooked, add a bit more broth or water as needed.
4. Be mindful of your broccoli: If you prefer your broccoli extra crisp, you can add it later in the cooking process. If you like it softer, add it earlier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry. That’s why it’s important to brown it and then let it finish cooking with the rice.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly if the heat is too high. Keep an eye on it while sautéing to avoid a bitter taste.
• Not Enough Liquid: Be sure to measure your broth correctly, as underestimating the liquid can result in undercooked rice.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add cheese before turning off the heat, it can separate and become greasy. Always add it at the end, off the heat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving up a delicious dish like this one. Here’s how to make your One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Serve this dish straight from the pan for a casual, family-style meal. Just be sure to place a trivet on the table to protect your surfaces from the hot pan.
• Pair it with a simple green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
• For a fancier presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates and sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheese on top before serving.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe Tips

• Use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the entire dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be aware that the rice may absorb more of the sauce over time.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. You may need to add an extra ½ cup of broth to account for the extra cooking time.

Can I freeze One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
Yes! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a little kick.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you can use a non-dairy cheese substitute and replace the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Conclusion

This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce—all made in one pan for easy clean-up. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. So grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal with minimal effort!

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