One Pan Cheesy Chicken with Broccoli and Rice
Try this One Pan Cheesy Chicken with broccoli and Rice recipe.
Try this One Pan Cheesy Chicken with broccoli and Rice recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- salt & pepper
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into cubes (about 3)
- 1 cup white rice (i used jasmine)
- 4 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- Carbohydrate 6.30447021577881 g
- Cholesterol 73.366012437391 mg
- Fat 11.2386829885395 g
- Fiber 0.0628450593010992 g
- Protein 27.4207510791008 g
- Saturated Fat 5.80920000802731 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (261g)
- Sodium 521.231544336583 mg
- Sugar 6.24162515647771 g
- Trans Fat 0.805310392295364 g
- Calories 242 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and chicken pieces.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper and cook about 5-6 minutes until no longer pink and cooked throughout.
- Remove from pan and set aside.
- Reduce pan heat to medium low add onion and garlic to a pan.
- Sauté until tender.
- Add the rice and continue to toast the rice about a minute or two.
- Pour in the chicken stock and simmer with the lid on for 15 minutes.
- After the rice has been cooking for about 8 minutes add the broccoli to the rice and put the lid back on.
- This will steam the broccoli.
- Once the rice is finished cooking, add salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir to combine.
- Add the chicken back and stir.
- Top with the cheese and put the lid on for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.
- Stir the melted cheese in and serve.
One Pan Cheesy Chicken with Broccoli and Rice: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinners. This One Pan Cheesy Chicken with Broccoli and Rice recipe has become a staple in our house. It's incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal cleanup (a huge plus!), and the whole family devours it. The cheesy sauce is rich and creamy, perfectly complementing the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. It's a complete meal in one pan, offering a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend would work wonderfully. You can also add other vegetables to the mix, such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers, to customize it to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika. The possibilities are endless!
This dish is also incredibly budget-friendly. Chicken breast is a relatively inexpensive protein source, and the other ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores. It's a perfect example of how a delicious and satisfying meal doesn't have to break the bank. I often double the recipe and have leftovers for lunch the next day, making it even more efficient for my busy schedule. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the second time around.
Beyond the ease and affordability, this recipe is a great way to get my family to eat their vegetables. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, love the cheesy broccoli in this dish. It’s a sneaky way to ensure they're getting their daily dose of greens without any complaints. The creamy cheese sauce makes the broccoli incredibly palatable, even for the most discerning of palates.
The process is so straightforward that even my children can help with the preparation. From washing the broccoli to stirring in the cheese, involving them in the cooking process makes them more interested in trying the finished product. It's a fun family activity that fosters a love for cooking and healthy eating habits.
In conclusion, this One Pan Cheesy Chicken with Broccoli and Rice recipe is a true winner. It's quick, easy, delicious, affordable, versatile, and kid-approved – everything a busy mom could ask for in a weeknight dinner. Give it a try, and I'm sure it will become a family favorite in your house too. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a satisfying and enjoyable culinary experience.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
- Add more veggies: Incorporate carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a cheese blend.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
- Meal prep friendly: Double the recipe and enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.
