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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Warm a spacious skillet over medium heat, drizzling olive oil across the surface.
- 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.
- Using the same skillet, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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