Description
This cheesy chicken and broccoli rice skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal! Juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice come together in a creamy, cheesy sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is quick to make, packed with protein, and full of rich flavors that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 1×1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups white long-grain rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups water
- 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the rinsed rice, then pour in the chicken stock and water. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the chopped broccoli and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- Pour in the milk and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top, and cover for 2 minutes to let it melt. Serve warm.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
- For extra creaminess, swap the milk for heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese for a smoother texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American