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In the world of home cooking, few dishes can rival the comforting allure of a One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice meal. This delightful recipe embodies the perfect harmony of flavors and textures, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese all nestled together with fluffy rice. It's a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body, making it a favorite among families and busy professionals alike.

One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Discover the joy of home cooking with this One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe! This delicious dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese, all served over fluffy rice. Perfect for busy nights, it's easy to prepare and minimizes cleanup. Enjoy a hearty meal that's both nutritious and comforting, appealing to novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Get ready to savor every bite of this flavorful one-pan wonder!

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup (190g) long-grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed under cold water

2 cups (475ml) chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

2 cups (150g) fresh broccoli florets (can substitute with frozen)

1 cup (100g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 small onion, diced finely

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a savory depth

½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

    Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

      Add Rice & Broth: Stir in the rinsed long-grain rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan left behind by the chicken.

        Combine Chicken & Broccoli: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the fresh broccoli florets. Stir everything together to combine, then cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Check occasionally to prevent sticking, giving it a gentle stir.

          Cheesy Finish: Once the rice is cooked to perfection, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

            Garnish & Serve: After the cheese has melted, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish the delicious dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful one-pan cheesy chicken, broccoli, and rice!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4