Description
Hearty “One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice” delivers comfort straight from kitchen to plate. Melted cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice blend into a satisfying meal that promises deliciousness in every single bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup uncooked extra long grain white rice
- 1 large bunch of fresh broccoli
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Cooking Fat:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature, gently sautéing diced onions until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Generously season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating across all surfaces.
- Elevate skillet temperature to medium-high and carefully place seasoned chicken into the pan, allowing each piece to develop a golden-brown exterior.
- Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, stirring briefly to release its aromatic qualities and prevent burning.
- Relocate chicken to one side of the pan and drizzle additional olive oil on the empty section.
- Toast uncooked rice in the olive oil, gently stirring until grains develop a light golden hue and emit a nutty aroma.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, thoroughly incorporating all ingredients and creating a uniform mixture.
- Reduce flame to low, cover the pan completely, and allow the chicken and rice to simmer quietly.
- After approximately 12 minutes, carefully distribute broccoli florets throughout the skillet, ensuring even distribution.
- Continue cooking covered for an additional 8 minutes, or until both rice and broccoli reach optimal tenderness.
- Remove skillet from heat source and fold in shredded cheese, creating a creamy, cohesive texture.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese across the top, replacing the lid to facilitate gentle melting for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Quickly chop broccoli into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Use medium-high heat when browning chicken to create a golden, flavorful exterior without overcooking the meat.
- Select a low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
- Opt for sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses to add more depth and complexity to the final flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg