Quick & Cheesy One Pan Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

Whipping up a satisfying one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice meal becomes incredibly simple with this foolproof recipe.

Comfort meets convenience in a single skillet that saves time and minimizes cleanup.

Tender chicken pieces nestle perfectly among vibrant green broccoli florets and fluffy rice grains.

Melted cheese creates a luxurious blanket of flavor that makes every bite irresistible.

Busy home cooks will appreciate how quickly this nutritious dish comes together without sacrificing taste.

Seasonal ingredients blend harmoniously, promising a wholesome dinner that delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

Let’s dive into a recipe that transforms weeknight cooking from mundane to magnificent.

Reasons to Make One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

• Breeze Through Preparation: This chicken francese recipe offers simple steps that even beginner cooks can master with confidence, requiring minimal culinary skills to create a restaurant-quality dish.
• Transform Ordinary Ingredients: Using basic pantry staples like chicken, eggs, flour, and common seasonings, you can elevate a standard protein into a gourmet meal that impresses family and guests.
• Versatile Dining Delight: Perfect for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or special celebrations, this recipe adapts seamlessly to various dining occasions while delivering maximum flavor with minimal complexity.
• Quick Comfort Cooking: From start to finish, this dish comes together rapidly, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What You Need for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean protein that forms the main component of the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Adds rich flavor and helps cook the rice to perfection.

• White Rice: Provides a fluffy and hearty base for the one-pan meal.

• Broccoli Florets: Adds nutritious green color and a crisp texture to the dish.
• Onion, Garlic: Provide a savory and aromatic foundation for the recipe.

• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a creamy, tangy sauce that brings all the ingredients together.

• Cooking Oil: Helps brown the chicken and prevent sticking to the pan.
• Salt, Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall flavor of the dish.

Steps to Prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Step 1: Sizzle and Brown Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place seasoned chicken breasts into the pan, cooking until golden brown on both sides.

Carefully transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build Flavor Base

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic

Add uncooked rice and pour in chicken broth.

Cover the pan and let it simmer until rice becomes tender and absorbs the liquid.

Step 3: Combine and Cook Ingredients

Gently return the browned chicken to the skillet.

Scatter fresh broccoli florets around the chicken. Cover and cook for several minutes until broccoli reaches a vibrant green and becomes crisp-tender.

Step 4: Create Creamy Cheesy Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire dish. Stir gently to help cheese melt completely, creating a luxurious, smooth coating on the chicken, rice, and broccoli.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and plate immediately. The melted cheese will continue to coat the ingredients, creating a comforting and delicious one-pan meal perfect for family dinner.

Pro Tricks for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

• Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer more flavor and moisture in your dish.
• Use brown rice for added fiber and nutrition, but adjust cooking liquid and time accordingly.
• Select fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and vibrant green color during cooking.
• Sprinkle extra cheese on top just before serving to create a deliciously melted golden crust.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like monterey jack or pepper jack for unique taste profiles.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Twist Ideas

• Tex-Mex Fusion: Replace cheddar with pepper jack cheese, add diced jalapeños, and sprinkle with taco seasoning for a spicy southwestern kick.
• Mediterranean Style: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth, use feta cheese instead of cheddar, and add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and oregano for a Greek-inspired version.
• Creamy Mushroom Upgrade: Include sliced mushrooms during sautéing, use cream of mushroom soup with chicken broth, and mix in parmesan cheese for a rich, earthy flavor profile.
• Asian-Inspired Option: Incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil during cooking, top with green onions, and use mozzarella cheese for a unique cross-cultural meal.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

• Comfort Food Family Feast: Gather loved ones around this hearty one-pan meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and quick.
• Meal Prep Champion: Portion this dish into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The combination of protein, vegetables, and grains makes it a nutritionally balanced option for work or school meals.
• Picnic Perfect Packed Lunch: Transfer the cooled dish into a sealed container for an outdoor lunch that travels well. The cheesy chicken and rice stays tasty at room temperature and provides a filling midday meal.
• Game Night Crowd Pleaser: Serve this dish during movie or sports watching parties as a communal style meal. Guests can scoop directly from the pan, making it an interactive and casual dining experience that encourages sharing and conversation.

Storing Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Easily

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
• Avoid repeatedly reheating the dish, as this can degrade the texture of the chicken and rice, making them dry and less enjoyable.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly. Just add it directly to the pan and cook until heated through and tender.

• What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can also use brown rice or jasmine rice. Just adjust cooking liquid and time accordingly.

• How do I ensure my chicken stays moist?

Season the chicken well, don’t overcook it, and remove from pan once browned. Adding it back later helps keep the meat tender and juicy.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your seasonings are gluten-free. The recipe is naturally gluten-free otherwise.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

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4.9 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice delivers comfort on a plate with creamy textures and satisfying flavors. Home cooks can easily master this simple skillet meal that brings warmth and nutrition to dinner tables.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup white or brown rice
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Sear seasoned chicken breasts in a large skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown, approximately 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate and reserve.
2. Reduce heat to medium and sauté diced onions and minced garlic in the same pan until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add uncooked rice and stir to coat with aromatic ingredients, then pour in chicken broth. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, allowing rice to absorb liquid and become tender.
4. Gently fold broccoli florets and previously cooked chicken into the rice mixture, ensuring even distribution. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until broccoli reaches a vibrant green and crisp-tender texture.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire dish, stirring carefully to create a smooth, creamy consistency. Allow cheese to melt completely, coating all ingredients with a rich, savory layer.
6. Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Serve immediately while hot and cheese remains gooey.

Notes

• Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking and faster preparation time.
• Select fresh broccoli florets or frozen ones work perfectly; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water before adding to prevent soggy texture.
• Choose long-grain white rice for best results, as it maintains separation and doesn’t become mushy during the one-pan cooking process.
• Customize cheese options by substituting cheddar with monterey jack, pepper jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles and dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg