Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe You Can’t Miss

It was one of those busy weekdays when I needed to whip up something quick and delicious for the family. With the kids’ after-school activities running late, I wanted to create a meal that was comforting yet effortless. That’s when my one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice recipe came to life. The combination of chicken, broccoli, and rice mixed with creamy cheese was an instant hit! After just one bite, everyone was hooked. If you’re looking for an easy and wholesome chicken broccoli rice dish, this is a must-try for any weeknight dinner.

Why Is My One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe Unique?

This recipe is a delightful take on the classic chicken broccoli rice casserole, but with a twist. It’s made in just one pan, saving you both time and effort. The creamy texture from the cheese, combined with tender chicken and rice, makes it a comfort food favorite. I’ve added extra flavor with garlic and paprika, setting it apart from the usual cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole you might find. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for an easy one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients List for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups broccoli florets (cut into small pieces)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences:

• Chicken: You can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken and rice from meal prep works too!
• Rice: While I’ve used white rice, you can swap it out for minute rice if you’re in a hurry. Brown rice or even quinoa works as well, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Broccoli: Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh broccoli for convenience. Just thaw it slightly before adding it to the pan to avoid excess water.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack. This will give the dish a richer flavor, perfect for fans of cheesy chicken and rice.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Rice

In the same pan, add the uncooked white rice and stir for 2-3 minutes to let it absorb the chicken’s flavors.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and stir. Add the broccoli florets on top. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice and broccoli are tender.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, return the chicken to the pan. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese, cover again, and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Gently stir everything together to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Overcooking the chicken: To avoid dry chicken, don’t cook it for too long in the first step. Remember, it will continue cooking with the rice and cheese.
• Mushy rice: Keep an eye on the liquid levels. Adding too much broth can result in overly soft rice. Stick to the recommended amount or adjust as needed.
• Uneven cooking: Spread the broccoli evenly over the rice so it cooks at the same rate. If you prefer your broccoli a bit crisper, add it halfway through the cooking process.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve this cheesy chicken broccoli rice dish straight from the pan for a rustic family-style meal. For a fancier presentation, scoop portions into individual bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This rice dish can also be paired with a simple side salad or roasted carrots for added color and nutrition.

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

This dish works wonderfully as a stand-alone meal, but if you’re looking to pair it with something extra, try a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the cheesy sauce. Alternatively, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a simple green salad. If you’re meal prepping, this recipe is perfect for packing into individual containers for easy, ready-made lunches throughout the week.

Extra Recipe Tips for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Prepare the entire recipe and store it in airtight containers for up to three days. Reheat with a little splash of broth to bring back the creamy texture.
• Add more veggies: To up the nutritional content, you can add diced carrots or even spinach to the dish. They blend well with the cheesy chicken and broccoli rice.
• Spice it up: For a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper when seasoning the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works great in this recipe. Just thaw it slightly before adding it to the pan to prevent excess moisture from making the rice soggy.

Can I cook this in a crockpot?
While this recipe is designed for the stovetop, you can adapt it into a chicken and rice crockpot dish. Cook the chicken, rice, and broth on low for 4-6 hours, adding the broccoli in the last 30 minutes, and then stir in the cheese before serving.

What’s the best type of rice to use?
For a quicker version, you can use minute rice. For a heartier, healthier option, go for brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and easy meal, this easy one pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a family favorite that comes together quickly, using simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something to meal prep for the week, this dish won’t disappoint. Plus, with everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze! Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of this delightful chicken broccoli rice casserole!