Easy One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

This delightful recipe combines simplicity and flavor in one pot, making it a fuss-free choice for busy weeknights. The Easy One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice brings together gooey cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli for a wholesome meal that the whole family will love.

I remember stumbling upon this recipe during a hectic week when my kids had back-to-back soccer practices. Desperate for a quick meal that didn’t compromise on taste, I found this perfect solution. One bite of this creamy, cheesy goodness brought immediate smiles all around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is packed with reasons to love it. It’s convenient since everything cooks in a single pot, minimizing cleanup time. Additionally, it’s versatile; you can adapt ingredients based on what you have at home. The creamy texture is complemented by the slight crunch of broccoli, creating a pleasing contrast.

Ingredients Notes

The star components are chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese. Opt for chicken thighs for juiciness, though breasts will also work. When it comes to rice, jasmine or basmati yields the best texture. Use fresh broccoli for a vibrant green color, or frozen if you’re short on time. Any variety of cheddar works, but sharp cheddar gives an extra depth of flavor.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Start by sautéing diced onions and garlic until fragrant in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides.

Step 3

Stir in rice and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 15 minutes.

Step 4

Incorporate broccoli florets into the pot, cover again, and cook until the rice is tender and the broccoli is bright green, roughly 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Finish by stirring in cheese until it’s melted and the dish is creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot.

Storage Options

This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture, thawing overnight in the fridge if frozen.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to swap out broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers or peas. For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. For an extra kick, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this meal fresh from the pot for a family dinner or prepare it ahead of time for meal prep. Pair it with a crisp side salad or crusty bread to complement the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time, and you may need to add more broth to ensure the rice cooks completely.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Indeed, you can substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy content. Ensure that the broth used also aligns with dairy-free requirements.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Chicken thighs are preferred for their flavor and tenderness, but chicken breasts can also work if cut into smaller pieces to keep them juicy. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid dryness.