If you’re searching for the ultimate weeknight dinner that checks all the boxes — quick, comforting, and bursting with flavor — One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice will quickly earn a place in your regular rotation. This recipe features tender bites of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glorious blanket of melty cheese, all cooked to perfection in just one pan so cleanup is a breeze. With each forkful, you get a mix of textures and a symphony of savory, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers major flavor with minimal effort, making it a major weeknight winner.

One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients — each one plays a starring role in creating the taste and heartiness of One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice. From juicy chicken to vibrant broccoli and the all-important cheese, every item truly counts.

Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast brings lean protein and becomes irresistibly tender as it cooks.
Long-grain white rice: The perfect base that soaks up all the savory juices, giving you fluffy, flavorful grains.
Broccoli florets: Adds gorgeous color, crunch, and a healthy dose of green veggies for balance.
Shredded cheddar cheese: What’s a cheesy casserole without it? Opt for sharp cheddar for bolder flavor.
Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth and ensures everything cooks evenly and stays moist.
Onion: Diced onion gives a subtle sweetness and backbone of flavor.
Garlic: Just a couple of cloves amplify the aroma and bring mouthwatering depth.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it helps the chicken and vegetables brown up and shine.
Salt & pepper: Simple yet essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.
Optional: paprika or crushed red pepper flakes: For a hint of warmth and color, if you like things spiced up!

How to Make One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your diced chicken breast pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Let them sizzle for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they just start to turn golden. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them mingle with the chicken for another 2-3 minutes — you want your kitchen smelling incredible!

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Sprinkle the uncooked long-grain rice directly into the pan and stir well, allowing each grain to soak up the flavors from the chicken and aromatics. This little extra step helps keep the finished rice fluffy and infuses it with extra oomph.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a light simmer, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it all cook gently for about 15 minutes. This is when the rice plumps up and absorbs every bit of flavor.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

After the initial simmer, lift the lid and scatter broccoli florets over the top of the rice and chicken. Replace the lid and cook for another 7-10 minutes. The steam will gently cook the broccoli, keeping it bright and just tender with a slight crunch, which really makes One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice stand out.

Step 5: Stir and Top with Cheese

Once the rice is tender and the broccoli is vibrantly green, gently fold everything together with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover once more, and let the residual heat melt the cheese into gooey perfection for 2-3 minutes. The result is an irresistible, melty layer that perfectly finishes this one-pan wonder.

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

Garnishes

A simple flourish can make this dish feel extra special. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or scallions for a pop of color and freshness. If you love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or a dusting of paprika is gorgeous and tasty. Even a hint of lemon zest can liven up every bite!

Side Dishes

Honestly, One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is an all-in-one main, but if you’re feeding a crowd, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or simple garlic bread. A side of roasted cherry tomatoes or a light cucumber salad would also add freshness and round out the plate beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to go above and beyond, serve the dish in individual oven-safe bowls and pop them under the broiler for a bubbly cheese crust. You could also hollow out bell peppers, fill them with the cheesy chicken and rice mix, and bake for a festive, edible bowl — perfect for parties or meal prep!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers of One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors only get better as they mingle overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes like a dream! Let it cool completely, then transfer portions to airtight freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months — just label and date your containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a covered skillet with a splash of water or broth over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring gently to prevent sticking. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too; just cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring often so everything is evenly reheated and the cheese stays gooey.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely, but remember brown rice takes longer to cook and may require additional broth. Simply adjust the simmering time and add more liquid as needed until the rice is tender and everything is cooked through.

What’s the best way to cut the broccoli?

Chop your broccoli into small, bite-sized florets so they steam evenly and nestle nicely into every spoonful. If you like a bit of stem, peel and slice it thin for extra crunch and fiber!

Can I substitute another cheese?

Yes, One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice is flexible! While sharp cheddar gives the most classic flavor, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all melt beautifully and change up the flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It sure is, provided all your ingredients (especially broth and cheese) are certified gluten-free. Always double-check your labels if you’re cooking for someone with celiac or a gluten sensitivity.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Simply swap the chicken for chickpeas or cubed tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The result is still hearty, comforting, and packed with protein and veggies!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something deeply satisfying about a meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies — One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice does exactly that. I hope you try it soon and make it a cozy weeknight staple in your kitchen. If you make it, let me know how it turned out — I know you’ll love every cheesy, comforting bite!