Name: Chicken Broccoli Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup white rice (or brown rice); 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional, for creaminess); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy version); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 tsp paprika (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is filling, nutritious, and comes together with basic ingredients. The chicken provides protein, the broccoli adds freshness and crunch, and the rice makes it hearty and satisfying. It’s also versatile—you can make it creamy, cheesy, or keep it light depending on your preference. Best of all, it’s a one-pan or casserole-style meal, which means less cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
White rice or brown rice
Broccoli florets
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Milk or cream (optional, for creaminess)
Cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy version)
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper
Paprika (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
Stir in rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth, cover, and simmer until rice is almost cooked.
Add broccoli florets and cook until tender.
Return chicken to the pot and stir everything together.
For a creamy or cheesy version, stir in milk or cream and shredded cheddar until melted.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Make it cheesy by adding cheddar or mozzarella.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Add carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu.
Turn it into a baked casserole by topping with cheese and baking until golden.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to keep it from drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time since instant rice cooks much faster.

Do I need to cook the broccoli first?

No, just add it near the end of cooking so it stays crisp and green.

Can I make this in a crock pot?

Yes, combine everything except the broccoli and cheese, cook on low for 3–4 hours, then add broccoli and cheese at the end.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the cheese and use broth instead of milk or cream.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice cooks quickly and evenly, but brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrition.

How do I prevent mushy rice?

Avoid stirring too often and use the right liquid-to-rice ratio.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, add it straight from frozen near the end of cooking.

Is this dish healthy?

Yes, especially if you skip the cheese and cream. It’s balanced with lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, it reheats well and makes a great grab-and-go meal for busy days.

What can I serve with chicken broccoli rice?

It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can add a side salad or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Chicken broccoli rice is a wholesome, easy, and versatile dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you make it creamy, cheesy, or light, it’s a reliable go-to recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.