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Creamy One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice with Broccoli

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A quick and easy one-pot meal combining tender chicken, creamy cheesy rice, and fresh broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 190 grams)
  • 1 ½ cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, about 150 grams)
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth (600 ml)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 100 grams)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter (28 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16 grams)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%, 240 ml)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne, fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Chop the onion finely, mince the garlic, and cut broccoli into small florets if using fresh.
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, stirring for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown but are not fully cooked through.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the chicken mixture and stir constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
  5. Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the rice evenly.
  6. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Cook gently for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
  7. Stir in broccoli florets, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover again and cook for another 5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and cheese has melted.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or almond flour. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese. Add broccoli near the end to keep it tender-crisp. Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid scorching. If rice is not tender, add a splash of broth and cook a few more minutes. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for best melt.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot meal, cheesy chicken and rice, broccoli, easy dinner, weeknight recipe, comfort food, quick meal

Find it online: https://evabake.com/creamy-one-pot-cheesy-chicken-and-rice-with-broccoli-easy-recipe-for-busy-weeknights/