One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy melted cheese with nutritious broccoli, all in one pan. It’s a quick, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this recipe is an easy way to serve a wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of cheddar cheese and chicken creates a creamy, savory dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into small, bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup uncooked basmati or long-grain rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 bag (12 oz) frozen steamable broccoli (about 2 cups chopped broccoli)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is mostly cooked through. The chicken should be white on the outside but may still be slightly pink in the center.

1. Drain Excess Liquid:

• Once the chicken is mostly cooked, drain any excess liquid or oil from the pan to avoid the dish becoming greasy.

1. Add Rice and Broth:

• Stir in the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

1. Cook the Broccoli:

• While the rice is cooking, steam the frozen broccoli in the microwave according to the package instructions. Once done, you can chop the broccoli into smaller pieces if preferred.

1. Mix Broccoli and Cheese:

• Once the rice and chicken are cooked, stir in the steamed broccoli and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.

1. Melt the Cheese:

• Top the dish with the remaining 1 cup of cheese and cover the skillet with the lid. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

1. Serve:

• Serve the cheesy chicken broccoli rice immediately while it’s hot and melty. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or a crusty piece of bread.

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Tips for Perfect One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice:

• Rice Selection: Basmati or long-grain rice works best for this recipe, as it stays fluffy and doesn’t become too sticky. Make sure not to overcook the rice to avoid a mushy texture.
• Chicken Substitutions: If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs for the chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that thighs take a bit longer to cook through, but they add extra flavor and juiciness.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe, you can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Add more vegetables like bell peppers or peas to increase the nutrient content and make the dish even more colorful and flavorful.
• Make it Creamier: For a creamier texture, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream when you add the broccoli.

This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a convenient, delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or add more veggies to your family’s diet, all while keeping prep and cleanup to a minimum!