Tasty One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe Magic

Tucking into a satisfying one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice dish brings pure comfort on busy weeknights.

Weeknight meals demand simplicity without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Creamy cheese melts perfectly around tender chicken pieces and vibrant green broccoli florets.

Minimal cleanup makes this recipe a total winner for home cooks seeking delicious shortcuts.

Kitchen magic happens when ingredients combine seamlessly in a single skillet.

Hearty and filling, this meal provides balanced nutrition that keeps everyone happy and satisfied.

Casserole Variations for Extra Fun

• Vegetarian Rice Bowl: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using same cooking method and seasonings for a meat-free version.
• Mexican-Style Variation: Add diced jalapeños, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and include taco seasoning for a spicy southwestern flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining similar texture and cooking technique.
• Mediterranean Chicken Skillet: Include oregano, swap broccoli for spinach, use feta cheese instead of cheddar, and add kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired meal.

Serving Up Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

• Party Plating: Create a vibrant dinner presentation by serving this dish on colorful ceramic plates with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top for extra visual appeal.
• Protein Power-Up: Add a side of grilled asparagus or a crisp garden salad to boost protein and vegetable intake, making the meal more nutritionally balanced.
• Comfort Companion: Pair this cheesy chicken dish with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the rich, hearty flavors of the one-pan meal.
• Leftover Magic: Store any remaining portions in airtight containers for a delicious next-day lunch, reheating gently to maintain the dish's creamy texture and cheesy goodness.

How to Store Cheesy Casserole Leftovers

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Package the cooled dish in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal completely, and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent dryness. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the liquid and cooking time. Brown rice requires more broth and longer simmering, typically around 35-40 minutes.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be white throughout with no pink centers.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Prepare the dish, let it cool completely, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free chicken broth and verify that your rice and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Always check labels carefully.

One Pan Wonder: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Simplify Kitchen Cleanup: Prepare this entire meal in just one pan, reducing dishes and making post-dinner cleaning a breeze.
• Boost Nutrition Easily: Combine protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and hearty rice into a single delicious and balanced dish that supports healthy eating.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Craft a complete meal from start to finish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a satisfying dinner without complicated preparation.
• Customize with Confidence: Swap ingredients like different cheeses, proteins, or vegetables to match your family's taste preferences and pantry availability.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Chicken: Tender pieces that provide the primary protein source for the dish.

• Onion: Adds a savory base flavor to the one-pan meal.
• Broccoli, Garlic: Vegetables that enhance the nutritional value and taste of the recipe.

• Rice: Uncooked grain that serves as the hearty foundation of the one-pan meal.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and depth of flavor to cook the rice and chicken.

• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps with cooking and adds a subtle richness to the recipe.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts on top to create a creamy and flavorful finish.

Step-by-Step: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake

Step 1: Sizzle Onions in Pan

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Drop in diced onions and cook until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add chicken pieces to the pan, sprinkling with salt and pepper.

Cook until each piece develops a golden-brown exterior, creating delicious caramelized edges.

Step 3: Introduce Garlic

Toss minced garlic into the pan and stir quickly, letting its fragrant notes infuse the chicken and onions for about one minute.

Step 4: Prepare Rice Base

Slide the chicken mixture to one side of the pan.

Pour additional olive oil and add uncooked rice, toasting it until it becomes slightly golden and releases a nutty fragrance.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Reunite the chicken with the rice and pour chicken broth into the pan.

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

Arrange fresh broccoli florets on top of the rice and chicken.

Cover the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and tender.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire dish.

Cover the pan and let the cheese melt completely, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Give everything a good stir to mix the melted cheese, chicken, rice, and broccoli.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your one-pan wonder.

Pro Tips for Cheesy, Creamy Casseroles

• Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve perfectly fluffy texture.
• Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and maintain juicy, tender meat.
• Toast rice in olive oil before adding liquid to enhance nutty undertones and develop richer taste profile.
• Let cheese rest for a minute after melting to create smooth, creamy consistency without becoming oily.
• Add broccoli during the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve vibrant green color and maintain slight crunch.

One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe

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4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comfort meets convenience in this one-pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice dish, blending hearty protein with nutritious greens and creamy cheese. Hungry diners will savor each forkful of this effortless meal that brings together classic flavors in a single skillet.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 12 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 large bunch fresh broccoli
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Base and Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked extra long grain white rice
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Cheese:

• 1 1/2 to 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Sauté diced onions in olive oil over medium-high heat until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
2. Add seasoned chicken pieces to the pan, cooking until golden brown on all exterior surfaces, around 5-6 minutes.
3. Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, releasing aromatic flavors.
4. Slide chicken to one side of the pan and add remaining olive oil.
5. Toast uncooked rice in hot oil, stirring continuously to prevent burning and enhance nutty undertones, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Reunite chicken with rice and pour chicken broth into the pan, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and allow contents to simmer for 15 minutes, allowing rice to absorb liquid and become tender.
8. Distribute broccoli florets evenly across the top of the rice and chicken mixture, cover, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until broccoli is vibrant green and slightly crisp.
9. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire dish, covering and letting cheese melt completely for 2-3 minutes.
10. Gently fold all ingredients together, ensuring even cheese distribution, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

• Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh to create a vegetarian version that’s packed with protein and flavor.
• Cut broccoli into smaller florets for faster, more even cooking and easier eating experience.
• Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber and nutritional boost, just increase liquid and cooking time slightly.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavor profiles that elevate the dish’s taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 470 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg