One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy rice all cooked in one pot, simplifying cleanup while maximizing taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Enjoy the rich flavors of this easy-to-make meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
• Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Customizable: Easily adapt ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking of chicken, rice, and broccoli all at once.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

• 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
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the Broccoli and Cheese

• 1 large bunch of fresh broccoli
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

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

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Once the onions have softened, increase heat to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken breast to the pan. Brown the chicken pieces for about 5–7 minutes, then add minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the other side. Sauté uncooked rice in olive oil until it starts to take on a golden color, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken broth to the pan. Bring everything to a boil and stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer Covered

Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for about 12 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Broccoli

While the chicken and rice are cooking, remove florets from broccoli. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 8: Add Broccoli

Stir in broccoli once the initial cooking time is up. Continue cooking covered for another 8 minutes on low heat or until both broccoli and rice are tender.

Step 9: Add Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in half a cup of cheddar cheese until melted into the mixture.

Step 10: Finish with More Cheese

Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Cover again for another 2–3 minutes until melted before serving.

Enjoy your One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice!

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 to enhance your dining experience. Whether you are hosting a dinner or enjoying a family meal, here are some serving suggestions to consider.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves – Add torn basil leaves just before serving to elevate the aroma.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the richness of the chicken and cheese.
• Garden Salad – A light garden salad with a vinaigrette balances the hearty dish beautifully.

Topped with Additional Ingredients

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
• Hot Sauce – Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Served in Bowls

• Individual Bowls – Serve portions in individual bowls for a cozy presentation.
• Family Style – Place the pot at the center of the table for a communal dining experience.

How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

To achieve the best results with your One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and quality chicken enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you cook; adjust salt and pepper to fit your preference.
• Cook Rice Properly – Ensure not to overcrowd when adding rice; it helps achieve even cooking.
• Let it Rest – Allow the dish to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking for better flavor melding.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Pair your One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice with complementary side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftovers.
2. Steamed Green Beans – Bright green beans add freshness and crunch alongside the meal.
3. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots bring out the savory notes of your main dish.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad provides a nutritious contrast with its nutty flavor.
5. Coleslaw – Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the savory chicken and broccoli perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper for a tasty dish.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Add it during the last stages of cooking to keep it crisp and bright.
• Neglecting the rice: Not sautéing the rice before adding broth can lead to uneven cooking. Sautéing helps achieve a better texture and flavor.
• Ignoring the resting time: Skipping the resting time after cooking can result in a watery dish. Letting it sit allows flavors to meld together.
• Using low-quality cheese: Using subpar cheese can diminish the dish’s creaminess. Always opt for extra sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice in an airtight container.
• item It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• item You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container.
• item It is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice.

Can I use brown rice instead?

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

Is One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli, making it a wholesome meal option.

How do I customize One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. You can also substitute chicken with turkey or tofu.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep ingredients ahead of time by chopping vegetables and measuring out rice. Just assemble them when ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken Broccoli and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also deliciously satisfying. This versatile dish allows for various customization options, so feel free to experiment with different proteins or vegetables. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!