One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a one-and-done meal that takes minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. The combination of tender chicken, seasoned rice, and broccoli cooked together in a savory chicken broth creates the perfect base for gooey cheddar cheese to melt into. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, so there’s no need to fuss with multiple pans or dishes. Plus, the creamy, cheesy texture is irresistible, making it a perfect dish for both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into small, bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup uncooked basmati rice or long-grain rice
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 bag (12 oz) frozen steamable broccoli (about 2 cups chopped broccoli)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
3. Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir to combine with the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. While the rice is cooking, steam the frozen broccoli in the microwave according to package instructions, or cook it in the pot with a little water for 4–5 minutes.
6. Once the rice is done cooking, stir in the steamed broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the mixture is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. It takes about 30–40 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño to the chicken while cooking to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, richer flavor, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, or add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for a filling vegetarian meal.
• Cheese Variety: Mix it up by using different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for added depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute basmati rice with long-grain white rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, especially with brown rice, which takes longer to cook.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Simply chop it into small florets and steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a bit of liquid to prevent it from becoming dry.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! If you love cheese, feel free to add more shredded cheddar or mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for extra creaminess and flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more spice, consider stirring in some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño during the cooking process.

Can I make this dish with a different protein?

Yes! You can swap the chicken for cooked shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Cook the chicken, rice, and broth on low for 4–6 hours, then add the steamed broccoli and cheese during the last 15 minutes to prevent the cheese from overcooking.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a bit of liquid if necessary.

How do I prevent the rice from being too mushy?

To avoid mushy rice, make sure you measure the chicken broth and rice accurately and avoid stirring too much while it cooks. Once the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, remove it from the heat immediately.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. A sharp cheese like Parmesan can also add extra flavor.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is the perfect weeknight meal that combines simplicity, flavor, and convenience. The creamy, cheesy rice pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, making it a comforting and well-balanced dish. Plus, the fact that it’s all cooked in one pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a quick meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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