One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is the kind of comforting, all-in-one meal that keeps both dinnertime and cleanup simple. Tender chicken cooks alongside fluffy rice and crisp-tender broccoli, while melted cheese ties everything together into a warm, satisfying dish. Because it all comes together in a single pan, you get maximum flavor without a sink full of dishes. It’s an easy weeknight favorite that can be adapted with whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it perfect for feeding a family or preparing meals ahead for the week.

The Magic of One Pan Cooking

In today’s busy world, simplifying dinner preparation isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. This one pan meal eliminates the hassle of juggling multiple pots and pans while still delivering restaurant-quality results. When you cook everything together, the flavors meld beautifully as the rice absorbs the savory chicken broth and the natural juices from the chicken. Additionally, the steam from the cooking process helps the broccoli become perfectly tender without losing its vibrant color. The cheese melts into every crevice, creating pockets of creamy goodness throughout the dish. Consequently, you get complex flavors without complex techniques.

Understanding Your Ingredients

Choosing the Right Rice

The foundation of this casserole-style dish is the rice, and selecting the proper variety makes all the difference. Long-grain white rice works best because it cooks evenly and maintains a fluffy texture without becoming mushy. Unlike short-grain varieties, long-grain rice absorbs liquid gradually, which prevents clumping. Meanwhile, the individual grains remain distinct, creating the perfect base for the other ingredients. Some people prefer jasmine or basmati rice for added fragrance, which works wonderfully in this recipe. However, avoid instant rice because it won’t hold up well during the extended cooking time.

Ingredients

Preparation Steps for Success

Prepping Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare them accordingly. This French technique called mise en place saves time and prevents mistakes. First, dice your chicken into uniform pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Next, measure out your rice and set it aside. Cut your broccoli into florets of similar size so they cook evenly. Shred your cheese if you’re using a block rather than pre-shredded. Additionally, have your chicken broth and cream soup ready to go. This organized approach makes the actual cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Seasoning Like a Pro

The key to flavorful One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice lies in proper seasoning at each stage. Start by seasoning your chicken generously before cooking—this builds layers of flavor. The garlic powder and onion powder add aromatic depth without the need for chopping fresh aromatics. Meanwhile, paprika contributes a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken. Don’t forget to taste your chicken broth before adding it; if it’s low-sodium, you might want to add extra salt. Remember, it’s easier to add more seasoning later than to fix an over-salted dish.

Cooking Technique Breakdown

Browning the Chicken

The first crucial step involves browning your seasoned chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates complex flavors and appealing color. Heat your pan until it’s quite hot before adding the chicken—you should hear a sizzle when the meat hits the surface. Resist the urge to move the chicken around too much; let it develop a golden crust on each side. This takes roughly three to four minutes per side. However, don’t worry about cooking it through completely at this stage because it will finish cooking with the rice.

Building the Base

After removing the browned chicken, you’ll create the flavorful base that ties everything together. Add your rice directly to the same pan, stirring it around to coat it with the remaining oil and pick up those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Then, pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, stirring until everything combines smoothly. The cream soup adds richness and helps create that signature creamy texture throughout the dish. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat. This initial high temperature ensures the rice starts cooking immediately.

Storage and Meal Prep

Proper Storage Techniques

Leftovers store beautifully, making this recipe excellent for meal prep. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Properly stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for three to four days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture, as rice tends to dry out during storage. Microwave individual portions for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat larger portions in a covered dish in a 350-degree oven for about twenty minutes. The flavors often taste even better the next day after everything has had time to meld.

Freezing for Future Meals

This casserole freezes exceptionally well, providing convenient ready-made meals for busy weeks ahead. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Label each container with the date and contents. Frozen properly, this meal maintains its quality for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed above. Consequently, you can batch-cook this recipe and have multiple hassle-free dinners waiting in your freezer. It’s like having your own personal meal delivery service.

FAQ About One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe and can actually save you prep time. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish. Add frozen broccoli during the last ten minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft. The texture might be slightly different from fresh, but the flavor remains delicious.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

Since this One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is quite hearty and complete on its own, you don’t need much else. A simple side salad with vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the creamy richness. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are also excellent choices for soaking up the cheesy goodness. For a lighter option, serve steamed green beans or roasted asparagus on the side.

How do I prevent the bottom from burning?

Burning typically occurs when the heat is too high or there’s insufficient liquid. Always use medium to medium-low heat once you’ve brought the mixture to a boil. Make sure your pan has a tight-fitting lid to trap moisture. If you notice the bottom starting to stick, reduce the heat immediately and add a small amount of chicken broth. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this releases essential steam needed for cooking.

Conclusion

This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice truly deserves its place in your regular dinner rotation. It combines everything we love about comfort food—tender chicken, creamy cheese, hearty rice, and nutritious vegetables—into one simple, satisfying dish. Best of all, the minimal cleanup makes it practical for even the busiest households. Throughout this article, we’ve explored why this recipe works, how to customize it, and the techniques that ensure success every time. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this forgiving recipe delivers consistent results that please everyone at the table. The versatility allows you to adapt it based on what’s in your pantry or your family’s preferences. Meanwhile, the make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature means you can always have a home-cooked meal ready when life gets hectic. So grab your ingredients, dust off that trusty pan, and create this comforting meal that brings people together around the dinner table. 

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

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• Author: Angie
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A comforting one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients

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• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2.5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

1. 1. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and brown chicken pieces on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. 2. In the same pan, add uncooked rice and stir to coat with remaining oil. Pour in chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, stirring until well combined. Add garlic powder and onion powder, then bring to a boil.
3. 3. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low. Return browned chicken to the pan, distributing evenly. Arrange broccoli florets on top of the chicken and rice mixture.
4. 4. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. 5. Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let sit for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts completely. Alternatively, place under broiler for 2 minutes for a golden top.
6. 6. Fluff the rice gently, serve hot, and enjoy this comforting one-pan meal.

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Can substitute chicken thighs, use different cheese varieties, or add additional vegetables like bell peppers or peas.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 825mg
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 38g