One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Creating a delicious meal in one pan makes cooking incredibly easy and fun. That’s exactly what you’ll find in this One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe! Imagine tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese all coming together in one pot. The best part? Fewer dishes to wash afterward! This dish is perfect for anyone who wants a hearty meal without spending hours at the stove. Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone who loves a quick weekday dinner, this recipe has you covered. It’s comforting, flavorful, and full of nutritious ingredients that will please the whole family. So, let’s get started on making this simple and tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating a delicious meal in one pan not only simplifies your cooking process but also maximizes flavor by allowing all ingredients to meld together. This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice dish harnesses this technique, delivering a perfect balance of cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli. The use of low-sodium chicken broth enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming saltiness, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

This recipe is a dream come true for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is loved by both kids and adults alike. The creamy cheddar cheese adds richness, while the broccoli gives it a healthy twist — bringing together taste and nutrition. Plus, you can customize it according to your family’s preferences!

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup uncooked extra-long grain white rice
• 1 large bunch of fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1½ to 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese

Preparing One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Sautéing the Onions

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. This step lays a tasty foundation for the dish.

Seasoning the Chicken

Next, season the bite-sized chicken breast pieces with kosher salt and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. This ensures that every bite is flavorful.

Browning the Chicken

Once the onions have softened, it’s time to increase the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Sauté until the chicken is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing that garlicky aroma to fill your kitchen.

Toasting the Rice

Now, push the chicken to one side of the pan. Add an additional tablespoon of olive oil to the opposite side. Pour in the uncooked rice and sauté it until it turns a light golden color, which takes approximately 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the rice’s flavor.

Combining Ingredients

Carefully pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring to combine everything. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. This creates a gentle simmer that helps flavor meld beautifully.

Cooking the Chicken and Rice Mixture

Let the chicken and rice cook covered for about 12 minutes. This is crucial because it allows all the flavors to come together, resulting in a dish that’s comforting and satisfying.

Preparing the Broccoli

While the chicken and rice are cooking, prepare the broccoli florets. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking when added to the pan. Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch and a pop of color!

Adding Broccoli

After 12 minutes, uncover the pan and stir in the prepared broccoli. Cover again and let it cook on low for another 8 minutes, or until both the broccoli and rice are tender. You’ll love how everything cooks together harmoniously.

Finishing with Cheese

Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and stir in ½ cup of extra sharp cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes. The melted cheese creates a deliciously creamy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice as a standalone meal or with a side salad to brighten up the plate. It’s perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for the week!

Tips for Success

• Be sure to use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Chop the broccoli into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese according to your preference to elevate creaminess.

Variations

• Substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option and variation in taste.
• Add other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and color in the dish.
• Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique spin on flavor.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid to get it just right.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead for a plant-based option.

Can I freeze One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its deliciousness.

What can I serve alongside this dish?
This recipe stands well on its own but pairs nicely with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a fuller meal.

How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the cooking process for an extra kick that adds warmth.

This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is not only simple and comforting but also guarantees that you’ll have a fulfilling, satisfying meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to whip up a quick yet delicious dinner that truly delivers on taste and convenience. Happy cooking!

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