If you’re looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner that checks all the boxes—comforting, cheesy, nutritious, and quick—look no further than this One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and creamy melted cheese, all cooked in one single pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice
- Simple and quick: From start to finish, this meal takes under 40 minutes.
- One pan wonder: Less mess, less stress. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Balanced nutrition: Protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and comforting carbs from the rice.
- Family-friendly: Mild, cheesy, and flavorful—kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish.
- Versatile: Easily customizable by adding spices, swapping veggies, or using different cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials for this recipe:
- Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless) — cut into bite-sized pieces or strips
- Broccoli florets — fresh or frozen work well
- Long-grain white rice — provides that fluffy, absorbent base
- Chicken broth — for cooking the rice and adding flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese — for the gooey, melty cheesy goodness
- Onion and garlic — for an aromatic flavor base
- Olive oil or butter — for sautéing
- Seasonings — salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning or dried herbs
- Optional: cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces and cutting the broccoli into small florets. Mince the garlic and dice the onion to build a rich flavor base.
2. Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until they’re golden on all sides but not fully cooked through—about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add Rice and Broth
Pour in the uncooked rice and stir it into the onion and garlic, letting the grains toast slightly for 1-2 minutes. Then, add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the chicken to the pan and stir gently.
4. Cook Covered Until Rice Is Tender
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan tightly, and let everything simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the broth.
5. Add Broccoli and Cheese
Once the rice is almost done, stir in the broccoli florets. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to steam and soften.
After the broccoli is tender, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cover the pan again and let the cheese melt, creating a rich, gooey layer.
Tips for the Best One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice
- Use bone-in or skin-on chicken? For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken pieces cook faster and are easier to mix with rice.
- Rice variety: Long-grain white rice works best for texture. If using brown rice, increase cooking time and broth accordingly.
- Cheese variations: Try mozzarella for a milder taste, or a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Add more veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added with the broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
- Creaminess boost: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream when adding cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
After a long day, no one wants to spend hours in the kitchen or deal with piles of dishes. This one-pan meal is designed to minimize your effort but maximize your satisfaction. The chicken cooks quickly, the rice absorbs all the delicious juices, and the broccoli provides a healthy crunch—all topped with melty cheese that brings it together like a cozy hug.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead and reheat for leftovers the next day, making it great for meal prep or busy families.
Nutritional Highlights
- Protein: Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and energy.
- Vitamins and minerals: Broccoli is rich in vitamins C, K, and fiber.
- Carbohydrates: Rice offers energy-boosting carbs with a comforting texture.
- Calcium: Cheese adds calcium for healthy bones, plus a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice hot with a simple side salad or a piece of crusty bread to mop up any cheesy goodness. For a lighter option, enjoy it as is for a filling, balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice recipe is a fantastic go-to for anyone craving a delicious, wholesome meal with minimal fuss. It’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Give it a try tonight — you won’t be disappointed!