One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

If you're searching for a quick and easy meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, this One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is the perfect solution. Not only is it a delicious and comforting dish, but it's also simple to prepare with minimal clean-up. This recipe will quickly become a family favorite, combining tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, creamy rice, and lots of melted cheese in just one pan. Read on to learn exactly how to make this easy dish and discover some useful tips to perfect it!

What is One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a delightful, all-in-one dish that combines protein, vegetables, and grains into one hearty meal. Chicken breast is pan-seared to perfection, while broccoli and rice cook together in a cheesy sauce that binds everything together into a flavorful, comforting meal. The best part? It's all cooked in a single pan, making clean-up a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re in need of a fuss-free, wholesome meal.

Ingredients List for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious meal:

• Chicken breasts (2 large or 3 medium, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Broccoli florets (2 cups, fresh or frozen)
• Long-grain white rice (1 cup, uncooked)
• Chicken broth (2 cups)
• Cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded)
• Onion (1 small, diced)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Milk (½ cup)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)

Ingredients List for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice (Repeat for emphasis)

• Chicken breasts (2-3, cut into small pieces)
• Broccoli (2 cups, broken into small florets)
• White rice (1 cup, uncooked)
• Chicken stock or broth (2 cups, preferably low-sodium)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups)
• Diced onion (1 small)
• Minced garlic (2 cloves)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Milk (½ cup)
• Salt and pepper (to season)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Cayenne pepper (optional, if you like a little kick)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is easily adaptable based on your taste preferences and available ingredients:

• Chicken substitutes: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat. If you're vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, or just use extra broccoli.
• Rice variations: You can replace white rice with brown rice or wild rice. Keep in mind, cooking times may vary. Instant rice can also be used for a quicker meal.
• Cheese options: While cheddar cheese works best for this recipe, you can substitute it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable variations: Add in other veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. You can also swap broccoli with cauliflower if you prefer.
• Healthier options: Use low-fat cheese and milk to reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Add the Rice and Broth: Stir in the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until the rice is tender.
4. Add Broccoli: About 5 minutes before the rice is done cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pan. Stir to combine and let the broccoli steam as the rice finishes cooking.
5. Return the Chicken: Once the rice and broccoli are cooked, add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Stir in the milk and half of the shredded cheese. Stir well until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
6. Final Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the dish and cover the pan with a lid for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and form a gooey topping.
7. Serve: Remove from heat, let the dish rest for a few minutes, then serve warm.

How to Cook One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Chicken: Start by browning the chicken in a skillet with olive oil and butter. Make sure it gets a nice golden color but doesn't overcook.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Cook the onions and garlic in the remaining fat until soft and fragrant.
3. Simmer the Rice: Add the rice and chicken broth, simmering until the rice absorbs all the liquid and becomes tender.
4. Steam the Broccoli: Incorporate the broccoli into the pan, allowing it to cook through and become tender but still bright green.
5. Melt the Cheese: Stir in half the cheese and finish by sprinkling the rest on top to melt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not properly seasoning the chicken: Always season the chicken before cooking. It enhances the flavor and ensures the meat is well-seasoned throughout.
• Undercooked rice: Ensure the rice is fully cooked before adding other ingredients. If necessary, add a bit more broth and cook a little longer.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Add the broccoli toward the end of the cooking process to maintain its color and texture. Overcooking it will make it mushy.
• Burning the cheese: Make sure to cover the pan when adding the final cheese layer to let it melt gently without burning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can take this simple meal to the next level. Here’s how you can serve it to impress:

• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top of the finished dish adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Use colorful plates: Serve the dish on a colorful plate or in a deep bowl to contrast with the bright green broccoli and golden cheese.
• Add a side salad: For a complete meal, serve with a light side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy sauce.

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Serve this dish straight from the pan, family-style. It’s perfect for casual dinners where everyone can help themselves. You can also portion it out into individual bowls for a more formal presentation. If you’re meal prepping, divide it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Layered bowls: For a more Instagram-worthy presentation, layer the rice and broccoli first, then place the chicken pieces on top. Finish with a drizzle of melted cheese and a sprig of parsley.
• Cheese drizzle: For an extra cheesy look, drizzle some more melted cheese on top before serving.
• Serve in cast iron: If you’ve cooked everything in a cast-iron skillet, serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, homey feel.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe Tips

• Use fresh broccoli for a crunchier texture, but frozen works just as well for convenience.
• Season as you go: Taste each component (chicken, rice, cheese mixture) and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Cheese matters: For the best results, shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the melted cheese.
• Let it rest: Once cooked, let the dish rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to add it directly to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it's heated through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I freeze One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for chicken?
If you're not a fan of chicken, you can use turkey, tofu, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your broth and other ingredients to ensure they don’t contain any gluten.

Conclusion

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. With its cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and wholesome broccoli, it’s a complete meal cooked in just one pan. Plus, the variations are endless, making it a versatile dish that you can adapt to your taste. Try it today, and you’ll have a new go-to recipe that the whole family will love!

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