Ah, One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice! Is there anything better than a warm, comforting meal that only requires one pan? I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly winter evening, and I was in need of something heartwarming and delicious. As I stirred the bubbling mixture on the stove, my house began to fill with this intoxicating aroma of melted cheese mixed with savory chicken and fresh broccoli. It felt like a warm hug just when I needed it most.
What I love about this recipe is not just the ease of preparation but how it brings everyone together. It’s a family favorite that I often whip up after a long day. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze! So if you’re looking for a dish that’s flavorful, satisfying, and pleasing to the eye (not to mention your taste buds), let’s get cooking!
What’s in One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
Chicken Breast: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb all the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could use thighs for a richer flavor!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is my go-to because it adds a lovely crunch and color to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works just as well!
Rice: I use long-grain white rice for its texture, but you can opt for brown rice if you prefer something heartier. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary!
Cheddar Cheese: A generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese melts into the dish, making it creamy and indulgent. I usually go for sharp cheddar to give it that extra zing.
Chicken Broth: This is key to cooking the rice and infusing each grain with flavor. Low-sodium broth is the best choice if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Seasonings: Basic salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder work wonders here! They are like the rock stars of the flavor world, bringing all the ingredients together harmoniously.
Is One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also comes packed with nutritional benefits.
Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken helps in muscle building and keeps you full longer.
Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, plus fiber, broccoli supports your immune system and aids digestion. It’s one of those veggies you can feel good about adding to your plate!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheese is often viewed as indulgent, it also provides calcium and protein. Just be mindful of the portion size to balance indulgence with health.
The only thing to watch out for is the sodium content from the broth and cheese. If you’re keeping an eye on sodium, using low-sodium options and controlling the cheese quantity can help.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
– 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil (for cooking)
*Serves about 4.*
How to Make One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
1. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the rice to the pan, stirring it in with the chicken until everything is mixed well.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes (or until the rice is cooked through).
4. Once the rice is ready, stir in the broccoli.* Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes so the broccoli steams.
5. Finally, remove the pan from heat, sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let it sit for about 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Variations and Serving Suggestions
This recipe is so versatile! Feel free to swap out the cheese for Monterey Jack or even add in some pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also toss in other veggies such as bell peppers or spinach to get those nutrients up.
If you want a little extra flavor dimension, throw in some cooked bacon bits or even a sprinkle of paprika on top of the cheese for a pop of color.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels indulgent yet is pretty darn easy to make.
I can’t wait for you to try this One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice! I hope it warms your heart and your home just like it does for me. Please let me know how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
