There’s something quintessentially cozy about a one-pan meal, isn’t there? Today, I want to share with you my go-to comfort dish: One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice. I absolutely adore this recipe for its simplicity and heartiness, and let me tell you, it’s a lifesaver on those busy weeknights. I still remember the first time I made it; I had just come home from a long day at work, absolutely exhausted, yet craving something warm and satisfying. This dish not only filled my belly but also wrapped me in a hug of cheesy goodness and nostalgia.
What makes this recipe truly special is that it’s so versatile. You can mix in any veggies you have lying around, and with just one pan, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying the delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, there’s cheese. Need I say more? So let’s dive in and whip up this delectable dish together!
What’s in One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook and tender bites.
Broccoli: Fresh, vibrant broccoli adds a crunch and a pop of color. Frozen broccoli works just as well, so no worries if fresh isn’t available!
Rice: Long grain white rice or Jasmine rice is my favorite for this recipe; it cooks up fluffy and absorbs all those cheesy flavors beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese: Because cheese makes everything better! I usually go for sharp or extra sharp cheddar for that rich, flavorful kick.
Chicken Broth: This is the magic potion that keeps everything moist and infuses the entire dish with flavor. Low-sodium broth is my preferred choice to keep the dish balanced.
Onions and Garlic: Sautéed onion and garlic are what give this dish its aromatic base. You truly can’t go wrong with these staples.
Seasonings: Basic salt and pepper, and maybe a hint of paprika for that subtle warmth, tie everything together beautifully.
Is One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish checks off a lot of nutritional boxes.
Chicken Breast: A great source of lean protein which is excellent for muscle repair and growth.
Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, this green veggie is a champion for your immune system and bone health.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheese can be high in fat, it also provides calcium and protein. Just be mindful of portion sizes.
However, I do suggest using low-sodium chicken broth to keep the sodium levels in check. And if you’re watching your carbs, you can swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
– 1 cup long grain white rice (or Jasmine rice)
– 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
How to Make One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice?
1. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, and broccoli. Stir everything well and bring it to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover it again for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.
7. Fluff with a fork and serve!
Savoury Tips and Twists
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these adjustments! You can swap out the broccoli for any of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little heat. And don’t forget to try some different cheeses! Pepper jack or gouda can elevate the cheesy experience even more.
I hope you’ll give my One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice a try! It’s such a simple dish that tastes like a little hug in a bowl. And I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any personal twists you make. Happy cooking!
