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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- 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.
- Reduce heat to medium and sauté diced onions and minced garlic in the same pan until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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