One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

When it comes to quick and easy dinner options, the One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole stands out. This all-in-one dish combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, all cooked together in a single pot. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome and delicious meal without the fuss. This recipe is not only straightforward but also guarantees minimal cleanup, making it a go-to family favorite.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)

Preparation

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, then add salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer and Add Broccoli

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, add the chopped broccoli on top of the rice, cover again, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the rice is cooked through.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. For extra creaminess, add the heavy cream and stir until fully incorporated. Serve hot.

Cooking Note

• Ensure the rice is fully cooked before adding the broccoli. This prevents the broccoli from becoming too mushy.
• You can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with a side of fresh garden salad or a simple tomato cucumber salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls can also be great accompaniments.

Tips

• To save time, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
• For a healthier twist, use brown rice instead of white rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Prep Time

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time

• 30 minutes

Total Time

• 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Protein: 25g per serving
• Sodium: 750mg per serving

Conclusion

The One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delightful, hearty meal that brings together comfort and convenience. With its rich, cheesy flavor and the wholesome goodness of chicken and broccoli, it's sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you need something quick, nutritious, and delicious. Enjoy the ease of cooking and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal with this fantastic one-pot wonder!

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