Description
This Cheesy Chicken, Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a comforting, one-pan meal combining tender chicken, creamy rice, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese. Simmered together and finished under the broiler, it’s an easy, flavorful dish perfect for a hearty family dinner in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Grains & Pantry
- 1 cup white long grain rice
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth (plus extra if needed)
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the chicken pieces, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside, about 6 minutes.
- Add Rice and Liquids, Simmer: Stir in the white rice, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet and cook until the rice is tender, about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Broccoli and Cheese: Once the rice is tender, add the broccoli florets and 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until combined and continue simmering uncovered until the broccoli is tender and the cheese has melted, about 5 more minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and add more chicken broth if the mixture becomes too dry, aiming for a moist, slightly wet consistency.
- Prepare Broiler and Topping: Preheat the oven broiler. In a small bowl, combine the Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter; mix well and set aside.
- Broil the Skillet: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken and broccoli mixture, followed by the breadcrumb topping. Place the skillet under the broiler and broil for about 2 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from broiler and serve immediately, enjoying the cheesy, savory skillet straight from the pan.
Notes
- Use a large oven-safe skillet to allow cooking on stovetop and finishing under the broiler without transferring the food.
- If you don’t have Panko bread crumbs, regular bread crumbs can be used, though Panko provides a lighter crispiness.
- Adding extra chicken broth during simmering helps keep the dish moist if needed.
- This recipe can be varied by substituting sharp cheddar with your preferred cheese or adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Ensure the skillet handle is oven-safe or use a handle cover during broiling.
