Homestyle One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

Crafting a delightful one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice dish feels like culinary magic waiting to unfold.

Comfort meets convenience in this simple yet satisfying meal.

Weeknight dinners just became significantly easier with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Perfectly seasoned chicken mingles with tender broccoli and creamy cheese, creating a harmonious blend that promises instant satisfaction.

Nutritious ingredients combine effortlessly in a single skillet, making this recipe a game-changer for busy households.

Wholesome and hearty, this meal transforms ordinary ingredients into something spectacular.

You’ll love how quickly this crowd-pleaser comes together, inviting everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma.

Pairing Suggestions for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

• Family Meal Magic: Cozy weeknight dinner that brings everyone together around the table, packed with protein and veggies for a complete balanced meal.
• Lunch Prep Champion: Pack cold leftovers in meal prep containers for a delicious work or school lunch that stays exciting and nutritious throughout the day.
• Potluck Party Pleaser: Transport this one-pan wonder in a covered dish to gatherings, guaranteeing a crowd-pleasing recipe that's easy to serve and share with friends and family.
• Quick Comfort Food Twist: Customize with different cheese types like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a personalized flavor experience that keeps the dish interesting and fun.

Best Storage for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before transferring to a storage container to prevent moisture buildup.
• Separate the rice, chicken, and broccoli into different sections of the container if possible to maintain texture.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or use a lid with a secure seal to keep freshness intact.

FAQs

• Is this recipe beginner-friendly?

Yes, it’s super easy! This one-pan dish requires basic cooking skills and minimal prep. Anyone can make it without complicated techniques.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding to the skillet to prevent making the rice soggy.

• What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar or monterey jack are ideal choices. They melt beautifully and add rich, creamy flavor to the chicken and rice dish.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use brown rice for more fiber, choose low-fat cheese, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition.

Reasons to Enjoy One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

• Simplify Dinner Prep: One-pan magic transforms chicken, broccoli, and rice into a stress-free meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
• Balanced Nutrition Packed: Lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and hearty rice create a complete meal that satisfies hunger and provides essential nutrients in a single delicious dish.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Perfect for busy families, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic schedules and hungry households.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Cheesy, savory, and totally adaptable, this one-pan wonder appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy and well-fed.

Ingredients for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

• Chicken: Tender cubed meat that provides protein and forms the main component of the dish.

• Onion, Garlic: Add depth and savory flavor to the base of the recipe.
• Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall taste and provide essential seasoning for the chicken.

• Rice: Serves as the starchy foundation of the one-pan meal.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and additional flavor for cooking the rice.

• Broccoli Florets: Adds nutritious green vegetable and freshness to the dish.

• Cheese: Melts to create a creamy, rich topping that adds extra flavor and texture.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing chicken and creating a non-stick cooking surface.

How to Prepare One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken in Skillet

• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 2: Caramelize Aromatics

Using the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Create Rice Base

Add rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Layer Broccoli

Spread broccoli florets on top of the rice, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Reunite and Melt Cheese

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and generously sprinkle cheese over the entire dish.

Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt completely.

Step 6: Plate and Devour

Serve the one-pan wonder warm and savor every delicious bite.

Helpful Tips for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

• Swap chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version that maintains protein content.
• Choose long-grain white rice or brown rice for different textures and nutritional profiles.
• Prevent rice from sticking by stirring occasionally and using a non-stick skillet with enough liquid.
• Add extra flavor by incorporating dried herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for depth.
• Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe consumption by using a meat thermometer.

Flavor Twists for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, using vegetable broth for a plant-based protein alternative that maintains the dish's creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced green chiles, swap paprika for chili powder, and use pepper jack cheese to create a zesty southwestern-inspired one-pan meal.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice and increase protein portion, using a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for extra richness while reducing carbohydrate content.

Delicious One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

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4.9 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 37 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comforting one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice delivers a complete meal with minimal cleanup. Home cooks can quickly prepare this delicious dinner that combines protein, vegetables, and creamy cheese in a single skillet.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)

Starches and Vegetables:

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet over medium heat, drizzling olive oil across the surface.
2. Dice chicken into uniform cubes, seasoning generously with paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 5-7 minutes until golden and thoroughly cooked, then transfer to a separate plate.
3. Using the same skillet, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour rice and chicken broth into the skillet, allowing the mixture to reach a rolling boil. Immediately reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, allowing rice to absorb liquid and become tender.
5. Gently arrange fresh broccoli florets atop the rice, maintaining the covered environment. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until broccoli becomes vibrant green and slightly tender.
6. Reintroduce the cooked chicken into the skillet, distributing evenly across the rice and broccoli mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top, covering the skillet to encourage rapid melting.
7. Once cheese transforms into a creamy, bubbling layer, remove from heat and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Ensure chicken is cut into uniform cubes for even cooking and consistent texture.
• Use a wide skillet to prevent overcrowding and allow ingredients to brown properly.
• Swap chicken for tofu or plant-based protein to create a vegetarian version of the dish.
• Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 27 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 415 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg