Okay, picture this: I’m if it’s a chilly evening, you’re craving something warm and comforting, but the thought of tackling the hottest part of the world is too overwhelming. Why do people hide under the covers? What is a good one-pot cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe? Isn’t it like a big hug in the bowl, and honestly, it rivals my grandma’s chicken pot pie (and you can too). How serious I am about Grandma’s cooking? What are some of the best ingredients for chicken, rice, and broccoli? In one glorious, easy-to-clean pot. What are some of the best meals to eat in your life? What is the best one-pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice?
What is a Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice?
What is this magical concoction? Think of it as the ultimate weeknight dinner shortcut. What is a deconstructed casserole? All together in a single pot on the stovetop. What is the beauty of rice cooking? What are some of the best cheese flavors Is it creamy, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Is this perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast? I am in the mood for a lot of fuss. I call it my “lazy-but-delicious” meal!
Why do I love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to fall head-over-heels for this recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible! The combination of savory chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and slightly sweet broccoli is simply divine. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite. What I love most about this is how unbelievably easy it is to make. Seriously, you just throw everything into one pot, stir occasionally, and let it simmer. It’s practically foolproof! Plus, it’s a total budget-friendly meal. Chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese are all relatively inexpensive ingredients, making this a great option for feeding a family on a budget. And did I mention it’s endlessly versatile? You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or cheeses. It’s kind of like a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! It reminds me of my other favorite one-pot wonder, jambalaya, but with a cheesy, kid-friendly twist. You can also sneak in extra veggies like peas or carrots, and the kids will never know!
How do I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice?
Quick Overview
What is a good one-pot cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice recipe? I’ll start by sautéing some chicken, then adding the rice, broth, and seasonings. Let it simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, then stir in the broccoli and let it boil for a few minutes. What is the process of simmering for 30 minutes? What is the secret to good chicken broth? I’m a beginner cook and I can make this recipe. Is it easier to make mac and cheese from scratch?
Ingredients
What is the recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice?
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. I always buy organic chicken when I can, but any chicken will work.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a little spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that extra garlicky kick. Can you use fresh garlic in place of chicken?
• 1 cup long grain rice: I prefer long grains because it cooks evenly and doesn’t get too sticky. Is Basmati rice a good food?
• 2 cups chicken broth: Use a good quality broth for the best flavor. I sometimes use homemade broth, but store-bought works just fine.
• 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce. I’ve used almond milk in a pinch, and it turned out great!
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works. If using frozen, add it during the last few minutes of cooking.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I like Sharp cheddar, but you can use any cheese you like. What are some good cheeses to make?
How do I follow
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the chicken and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or the chicken will steam instead of browning. If necessary, cook chicken in batches. I always make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F just to be safe.
Step 2: Add Rice, Broth, and Milk
Stir in rice, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is tender. When the liquid is absorbed, the meat is cooked. How do you stir rice to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot? I always set a timer so I don’t forget about it!
Step 3: Add Broccoli and Cheese
Stir in the broccoli and cheddar cheese. Set aside. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted. If using frozen broccoli, you may need to cook it for a few minutes longer. I like to add a little extra cheese on top for good measure – because why not?
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes before serving. What is the best way to make cheese melt? I sometimes garnish it with a sprinkle of parsley or sour cream. It’s really good!
What should I serve it with?
Is this one-pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice a complete meal on its own? What are some good serving suggestions?
For a simple side: If you want to getA side salad with a light vinaigrette is always good. It adds a bit of freshness and acidity to balance out the richness of the dish.
What is a hearty meal?Serve with roasted vegetables, like carrots, Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes. How do I add fiber to my diet?
For a Special Occasion:Serve it as part of a buffet spread alongside other comfort food favorites, like mashed potatoes, or grilled cheese. Mac and cheese, and cornbread. This is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you’re feeding a crowd.
For a Kid-Friendly Meal:Serve it with a side of fruit, like grapes, or berries. What are some good ways to encourage kids to eat veggies?
What are some good side dishes to serve with garlic bread?
What are some tips for perfecting your one-pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice?
How do I make one-pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice? What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years?
Chicken Prep: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking. I also like to pound the chicken breasts slightly to tenderize them and help them cook faster.
Rice Rinse:When cooking rice, rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch, which prevents it from becoming too thick. How do you rinse rice under cold water?
Broth Choice:What is the best chicken broth to use? I sometimes use homemade broth, but store bought works just fine. Look for a broth that is low in sodium and doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients.
What is the best cheeseWhat are some good substitutes for cheddar? What are some good cheeses to make? Monterey Jack, Colby, or any combination of them? Just make sure the cheese is shredded for easy melting.
What is BroccoliHow do you cook broccoli in a pan? If you use frozen broccoli, you may need to cook it for a few minutes longer.
Spice it up:Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Or add hot sauce at the end! Yum!
When I made this, I forgot to stir it occasionally and the rice stuck to the bottom! What can I learn from my mistakes?
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your one-pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Divide the rice into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep it from drying out. I sometimes add a little extra cheese when reheating – because, again, why not?
Glaze Timing Advice: This isn’t really a dish that requires glazing, but it is a dish that is better served fresh for best taste and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it: my go-to recipe for one-pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying – the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. I truly believe this recipe is a game-changer, especially for those of you who are short on time or just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other one-pot wonders, like my creamy tomato pasta or my spicy sausage and peppers. They’re all equally delicious and easy to make! Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
How to Whip Up a Delicious One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice - Easy Steps!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup Long-grain rice uncooked
- 4 cups Chicken broth low sodium
- 1 head Broccoli cut into florets
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese
- 0.5 cup Milk Optional, for creamier texture
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, rice, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the rice is cooked through.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add milk if needed for creamier texture. Serve hot and enjoy!
