One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli And Rice Recipe

Looking for a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that requires minimal cleanup? This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is your answer! Whether you're cooking for a family or just yourself, this recipe delivers a hearty, cheesy, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with protein, vegetables, and carbs, it’s a complete meal in just one pan. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and variations to make this dish your new go-to dinner!

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What is One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

“One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice” is a wholesome, all-in-one meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity: everything is cooked in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. You don’t need fancy ingredients or cooking techniques—just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The end result is a creamy, cheesy dish packed with flavor, nutrients, and texture.

Ingredients List for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Here are the essential ingredients you'll need to whip up this delicious one-pan meal:

1. Chicken Breasts or Thighs (1 lb): Cut into bite-sized pieces. Both breasts and thighs work well in this recipe, but thighs will add more flavor.
2. Broccoli (2 cups): Fresh broccoli florets give the dish a healthy crunch and vibrant color.
3. Rice (1 cup): Use white rice or brown rice, depending on your preference.
4. Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): Adds that irresistible gooey and cheesy element to the dish.
5. Chicken Broth (2 ½ cups): For cooking the rice and adding flavor to the dish.
6. Onion (1 medium, diced): For a base flavor that enhances the overall taste.
7. Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Because what’s a good dish without garlic?
8. Olive Oil or Butter (2 tbsp): To sauté the chicken and vegetables.
9. Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning the chicken and rice.
10. Paprika or Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): For an added depth of flavor.
11. Milk or Cream (½ cup): Optional, to make the dish extra creamy.
12. Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated): Optional, for an extra cheesy touch.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some common substitutions and variations to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

1. Chicken Variations: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat, or swap for rotisserie chicken if you're short on time. You can also use turkey or ground chicken.
2. Vegetable Substitutions: Don’t like broccoli? Substitute it with cauliflower, peas, or green beans. You can even use a mix of different vegetables for more variety.
3. Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses. If you prefer a sharper taste, go for a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan.
4. Grain Options: Brown rice or even quinoa can be used for a healthier twist. Keep in mind that brown rice will need more cooking time.
5. Low-Carb Option: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice to make this a low-carb meal, though you’ll need to adjust the liquid content accordingly.
6. Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce for a spicier version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice!

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli into small florets.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large, deep skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add them to the pan. Cook the chicken until it's browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent.
4. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice and allow it to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes, ensuring that it absorbs the flavors from the pan. Then, add the chicken broth to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until tender.
5. Add the Chicken and Broccoli: Once the rice is nearly done, add the browned chicken back into the pan along with the broccoli florets. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the broccoli to steam and the chicken to finish cooking through.
6. Add Cheese and Milk: When everything is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream (if using). Stir well to combine everything, allowing the cheese to melt into a creamy, delicious sauce.
7. Simmer and Serve: Allow the dish to simmer for 2-3 more minutes to let all the flavors come together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and serve hot!

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

1. Step 1: Brown the chicken in olive oil until golden, then remove and set aside.
2. Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic in the same pan until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add rice and broth, bring to a simmer, and cook covered until rice is nearly done.
4. Step 4: Add the chicken and broccoli, cover, and cook until broccoli is tender.
5. Step 5: Stir in cheddar cheese and milk, simmer until everything is creamy and delicious.
6. Step 6: Serve and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken in the first step, as it will continue cooking once added back to the rice.
2. Using Too Much Liquid: Stick to the recommended ratio of broth to rice. Too much liquid can result in mushy rice, while too little will leave the rice undercooked.
3. Not Covering the Pan: Covering the pan ensures the rice cooks evenly and the broccoli steams properly.
4. Skipping the Cheese Melting Step: Adding the cheese while the pan is still on low heat ensures that it melts into a creamy sauce rather than clumping together.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To elevate your One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice from simple to show-stopping, follow these tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives can add a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
2. Serve with a Side Salad: A light, crisp side salad with a vinaigrette dressing can complement the richness of the cheesy rice.
3. Add Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips over the top for a fun textural contrast.

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

This dish is best served hot, straight from the pan. Pair it with a light side like a green salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.

Presentation Ideas for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

For a more aesthetically pleasing presentation, consider using a cast-iron skillet for cooking and serving directly on the table. The rustic look pairs perfectly with the cheesy, homestyle feel of the dish. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese or freshly cracked pepper on top before serving for added visual appeal.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. For the best results, shred your cheese fresh from the block.
• Adjust Cook Time for Rice: Depending on the type of rice you use (white, brown, or jasmine), you may need to adjust the cook time. Always check the rice for doneness before proceeding to the next step.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dish reheats well, so you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

2. Can I freeze One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture of the rice may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh, just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish to prevent excess water.

4. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a covered pan over low heat on the stove.

Conclusion

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is the ultimate comfort meal that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. It’s a satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, creamy rice, and lots of gooey cheese—all in one pan for minimal cleanup. Whether you're feeding a crowd or making a meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try tonight, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite!

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