A One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice dish is a hearty, family-friendly meal that comes together in one skillet for easy prep and cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy rice, and nutritious broccoli makes this a satisfying dinner. Here’s a simple recipe:
One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice
Ingredients:
- Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Rice:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Cheese:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Season and Cook Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken on each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown (the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Rice:
- In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, garlic powder, and onion powder, allowing the rice to toast slightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Combine Chicken and Rice:
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, placing them on top of the rice.
- Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice and chicken cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Add Broccoli and Cheese:
- When the rice is nearly cooked, add the broccoli florets to the pan, spreading them over the rice and chicken. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Once the broccoli is done, remove the chicken from the pan.
- Stir the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese into the rice and broccoli mixture until the cheese melts and everything is creamy.
- Serve:
- Place the chicken back on top of the cheesy broccoli and rice, or slice the chicken into strips and mix it into the rice.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.
Enjoy your One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice!
Would you like any additional flavor suggestions or variations?