Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Skillet

One-Pan Comfort Meal A One-Pan Comfort Meal Inspired by Family Traditions

This skillet recipe brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice smothered in a rich, melty cheddar sauce. Reminiscent of cherished family meals, it’s designed to be simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights.

What Makes This Dish Special?

• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your meal.
• Family Favorite: A recipe inspired by comforting home-cooked memories.
• Balanced & Delicious: Combines lean protein, nutritious vegetables, and hearty rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal for dinner, meal prep, or even a quick lunch.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 2 cups of cooked chicken, either shredded or cubed.
• Rice: 1 cup of uncooked white rice (or 3 cups if pre-cooked).
• Broth: 2 cups of chicken broth (used when cooking rice).
• Broccoli: 2 cups of broccoli florets, chopped into bite-size pieces.
• Cheddar: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra if desired for topping).
• Milk: ½ cup of milk.
• Aromatics: 1 small onion (finely chopped) and 2 cloves garlic (minced).
• Fat: 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil.
• Seasonings: ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper, with optional ½ teaspoon each of paprika and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Skillet: Preferably with a lid.
• Cooking Pot: For rice if you’re starting from uncooked.
• Cutting Board & Knife: To chop your vegetables.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate seasoning.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For gentle stirring.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Rice

• If starting with uncooked rice: Combine the rice and chicken broth in a medium pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat your skillet: Warm butter or olive oil over medium heat.
• Cook the onions: Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
• Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it brown too much.

3. Steam the Broccoli

• Introduce the greens: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and toss them in the onion and garlic mixture.
• Cover and cook: Let the broccoli steam for 3–4 minutes until it’s tender yet still bright and crisp.

4. Combine Chicken and Rice

• Mix it up: Add the pre-cooked chicken along with the prepared rice to the skillet. Stir to blend all the ingredients evenly.

5. Create the Cheesy Sauce

• Lower the heat: With the pan on low, gently stir in the milk.
• Melt the cheese: Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar, stirring continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the mixture thoroughly.

6. Season to Perfection

• Adjust the flavors: Add salt, black pepper, and if desired, paprika and garlic powder. Taste and tweak the seasonings as needed.

7. Final Touch (Optional)

• Extra cheesy top: For an additional burst of flavor, sprinkle some extra cheddar on top and cover the skillet for a minute until it melts.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a couple of minutes off the heat so the flavors can meld.
• Plate and savor: Serve warm for a comforting, complete meal.

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Tips & Variations

• Speed Up with Pre-Cooked Rice: Use pre-cooked rice to reduce overall cooking time.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli offers better texture, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, try swapping in mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
• For a Healthier Twist: Consider using brown rice or cauliflower rice (adjust liquid and cooking time as needed).
• Protein Alternatives: Rotisserie chicken or even leftover turkey can be a convenient substitute for chicken.

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat Gently: Warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw and drain it first to avoid extra moisture.

What if I only have brown rice?
Brown rice works fine, though it typically requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and simmer accordingly, or use pre-cooked brown rice for convenience.

How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?
Freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly than pre-packaged options that often contain anti-caking agents. Stir slowly and add the cheese at low heat to prevent clumping.

Can this recipe be adapted for a slow cooker?
Certainly! You can combine all ingredients (except cheese and broccoli) in a slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours, then stir in the cheese and broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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This reimagined recipe retains the heart and flavor of the original dish while presenting it in a completely new format and language. Enjoy this comforting one-pan meal that brings both nostalgia and modern convenience to your kitchen!

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