Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice! Seriously, this dish is a game changer. Not only is it incredibly simple to whip up, but it’s also downright delicious—comfort food at its best! I love how everything cooks in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash and more time to relax after a long day. Plus, you get tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese all mingling together in perfect harmony. Yum!

This recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s one of the first meals I mastered when I started cooking. I remember being so proud of myself for making something that tasted so good and was so easy! It’s become a go-to whenever I need something quick yet satisfying. Trust me, once you try this one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice, you’ll be hooked too. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table, and the best part? You can customize it in so many ways. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients for one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb chicken breast, diced: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe since they cook quickly and stay juicy. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli is best, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain it beforehand!
1 cup rice: I usually go for long-grain white rice, but feel free to use brown rice if you want a healthier twist. Just remember, cooking times might vary a bit.
2 cups chicken broth: This adds so much flavor to the dish! You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
1 cup shredded cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for that cheesy goodness, but you can mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack for a little kick!
1 tablespoon olive oil: This is for sautéing the chicken, adding a lovely richness to the dish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Trust me, this brings a nice depth of flavor!
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and pairs perfectly with the garlic.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking; it really makes a difference!

Having everything prepped and ready to go will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Now, let’s get to cooking!

How to Prepare One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Now, let’s get into the fun part: cooking up this delicious one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice! Follow these steps for a meal that’s not only easy but also super satisfying.

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

First things first, grab a large pan and heat up that olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and hot—just give it about 1-2 minutes. This is super important because preheating the oil helps the chicken cook evenly and get a beautiful golden brown color. Yum!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once your pan is ready, toss in the diced chicken breast. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all up to coat the chicken evenly in those flavorful seasonings. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when there’s no pink left in the center. The aroma will have you drooling already!

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Next, it’s time to add the rice and chicken broth to the pan. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Now, bring the mixture to a boil—this is crucial because it helps the rice to cook properly. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This is where the magic happens—your rice will soak up all that delicious broth!

Step 4: Simmer with Broccoli

After those 15 minutes, carefully lift the lid (watch out for steam!), and add in the broccoli florets. Cover the pan again and cook everything for an additional 5 minutes. You’ll want to check that the broccoli is tender but still bright green. It should be cooked just right, not mushy!

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese

Finally, here comes the best part—add the shredded cheese to the pan and stir it in until it’s melted and creamy. This is where you want to get that dreamy, cheesy texture. Just imagine it all coming together, creating a mouthwatering, gooey dish that’s hard to resist. Cook for another minute or so to ensure everything is well combined, and you’re done! Get ready to serve up this delightful masterpiece!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice, you can feel good about what you’re serving up! This dish is not only comforting and delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Each serving has approximately 450 calories, with 35 grams of protein, which is fantastic for keeping you full and satisfied. Plus, it includes a nice balance of healthy fats and carbs.

Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. If you swap in brown rice or a different type of cheese, for example, those changes can affect the overall nutritional content. So, always take a moment to check the labels if you’re keeping an eye on certain dietary needs. Enjoy this tasty meal knowing it’s a wholesome choice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: It’s all cooked in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze! Less time scrubbing means more time enjoying your meal.
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a fuss.
Flavor Packed: The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese creates a comforting, mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you feeling satisfied and nourished.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish!

Tips for Success

To truly nail your one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice, here are some of my favorite tips! First, make sure your chicken is diced evenly to promote consistent cooking. If you’re using brown rice, just be aware that it’ll need a bit longer to cook, so adjust your broth and simmering time accordingly.

Also, don’t skimp on seasoning! A pinch of extra salt and pepper can elevate the flavors remarkably. For a little kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or some paprika to the chicken while it cooks. And here’s a fun tip: if you want a crispy cheese topping, sprinkle a bit of cheese on top and place it under the broiler for a minute or two after cooking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Trust me, these little tweaks make all the difference in creating a dish that everyone will rave about!

Variations of One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

If you’re looking to shake things up a bit with your one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice, I’ve got some fantastic variations for you! One of my favorites is to add carrots and bell peppers for a pop of color and extra crunch. Just chop them up and toss them in with the broccoli for the last few minutes of cooking.

For a little spice, consider mixing in some jalapeños or sprinkling in a bit of cajun seasoning while the chicken cooks. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist! You can even make it a Mexican-inspired dish by using taco seasoning and adding black beans.

These simple tweaks will keep your meals exciting, and the best part is, you can adjust each recipe to fit your taste buds perfectly!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from your one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice is super easy, and trust me, you’ll want to save every bite! First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is in the microwave. Pop it in for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you want to bring that cheesy goodness back to life, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out. Give it a good stir, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go in no time!

FAQ About One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Frozen chicken works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it completely before dicing and cooking, or you can cook it from frozen, but it may take a bit longer to reach the proper temperature.

What type of cheese is best?
I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can really mix and match! Mozzarella gives a lovely stretch, while pepper jack adds a nice kick. Go with what your taste buds fancy!

Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is super versatile. Feel free to toss in some carrots, peas, or even spinach. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the veggies you choose.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should be cooked until there’s no pink left inside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure it’s safe to eat!

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready for a quick and delicious meal!

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice: Comfort Made Easy

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

One pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice is a simple and delicious meal. It combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese in one dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
Add rice and chicken broth to the pan. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Stir in shredded cheese until melted and well combined.

Notes

You can use brown rice for a healthier option.
Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice, chicken and rice, easy chicken recipes

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