Name: One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483878H57M32S
Total time: PT-483878H57M32S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup white or brown rice; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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Short Description

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese with perfectly cooked rice—all in a single pan! This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep.
One-Pot Convenience: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Nutritious and Filling: A well-balanced dish with protein, veggies, and grains.
Family-Friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients

chicken breast or thighs
salt and pepper
olive oil or butter
onion
garlic
chicken broth
white or brown rice
broccoli florets
shredded cheddar cheese
Parmesan cheese
milk or heavy cream
red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Cook the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the rice, cover, and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Broccoli: When the rice is almost fully cooked, add the broccoli florets. Cover and let steam for a few minutes until tender.
Incorporate the Chicken: Slice or shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Stir to distribute evenly.
Make it Cheesy: Lower the heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and a splash of milk or cream. Stir until the cheese melts and coats the mixture evenly.
Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed, adding red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

Use Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda.
Go Low-Carb: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
Try Another Protein: Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
Add More Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking and use a non-stick or well-seasoned pan.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just add it a few minutes earlier to ensure it thaws and cooks properly.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice work best for a fluffy texture. Brown rice requires a longer cooking time.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute milk with coconut milk or almond milk.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the chicken broth and cheese are gluten-free.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients except cheese and broccoli, cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in cheese and broccoli 30 minutes before serving.

How can I make this meal healthier?

Use brown rice, add more veggies, and opt for reduced-fat cheese.

Can I add more protein?

Absolutely! Add cooked beans, chickpeas, or extra chicken.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet with a little broth or milk for the best texture.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works great—just add it towards the end of cooking.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a flavorful, comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with goodness. With minimal effort, you get a well-rounded dish that satisfies the whole family. Try it tonight for a hassle-free, delicious dinner!

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