One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese all in one pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a go-to meal for any occasion, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Plus, the minimal cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time doing dishes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pot and 30 minutes of cooking time, this meal is perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of chicken, broccoli, and cheese creates a comforting dish that’s full of flavor.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile: Great as a main course or paired with a side salad, it adapts well to any menu.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy dishes, making this recipe a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pot: Allows for even cooking of all ingredients in one place, making cleanup easier.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and chicken without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for perfect taste each time.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1/2 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 cup uncooked extra long grain white rice
• 1 large bunch of fresh broccoli
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Step 1: Sauté Onions

Start by sautéing onions in two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until they soften.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Season chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.

Step 3: Brown Chicken

Once the onions are softened, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan with chicken. Cook for an additional two minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Sauté Rice

Push the chicken to one side of the pan. On the empty side, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté uncooked rice in olive oil until it takes on a golden color, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil while stirring everything together.

Step 7: Cover and Cook

Reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and cook for about 12 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare Broccoli

While waiting, cut broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces.

Step 9: Add Broccoli

After 12 minutes, stir in broccoli pieces into the mixture. Continue cooking covered on low for another eight minutes until both broccoli and rice are tender.

Step 10: Add Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in half a cup of extra sharp cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 11: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Cover again for about two to three minutes allowing the cheese to melt completely before serving.

With these simple steps, your One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice will be ready to enjoy!

How to Serve One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a simple family meal or an impressive dish for guests, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the dish directly from the pot to encourage sharing.
• Offer extra cheese on the side for those who love a cheesy touch.

Individual Bowls

• Ladle generous portions into bowls for a more personal touch.
• Garnish with chopped parsley for color and freshness.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light side salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Choose greens like arugula or spinach with a vinaigrette dressing.

As Leftovers

• Reheat the One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice for a quick lunch.
• Add a splash of chicken broth while reheating to maintain moisture.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for added nutrition.
• Drizzle with lemon juice for brightness.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
• A warm baguette complements this hearty meal perfectly.

How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

To ensure your One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli enhance flavor and texture.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on both the rice and broccoli to avoid overcooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving, adding extra salt or pepper if necessary.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let it sit covered for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheese varieties like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors.
• Add spices: Consider adding spices such as paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Pairing side dishes with One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for dipping.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and color.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crunch and creaminess that balances the meal.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add freshness without overpowering flavors.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrast to the creamy rice dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs pairs well with the richness of the main dish.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a delightful addition, especially in summer months.
8. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring comfort to your dinner table alongside this one pot meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter pitfalls when making One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Ignoring the onion sauté: Failing to properly sauté the onions can lead to a flavorless dish. Make sure they are softened before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Remove it from heat once it’s browned and cooked through.
• Not measuring rice correctly: Using too much or too little rice can affect the texture. Always measure your rice using the correct ratio with liquid.
• Skipping the cheese melting step: Not letting the cheese melt on top at the end can result in a less creamy dish. Allow time for it to melt before serving.
• Using regular broth: Opting for high-sodium broth can overwhelm flavors. Always choose low-sodium chicken broth for balanced seasoning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Proper storage and reheating ensure your One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice stays delicious.

Refrigerator Storage

• • Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• • Let cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• • Freeze in portion-sized, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• • Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a simple, comforting meal that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rice all cooked together in one pot.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

How do I customize One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or even use different proteins such as shrimp or tofu for variety.

Is One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes! Leftovers freeze well if stored properly in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice is not just easy to prepare; it’s also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or different cheeses. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!