The Cheesy Chicken Skillet with Broccoli and Rice is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal — creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Juicy chicken pieces, tender rice, and crisp broccoli come together in a rich cheese sauce that makes every bite melt in your mouth. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights because everything cooks in a single skillet, saving time and cleanup. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
2. Ingredients
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
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2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
3. Instructions
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Cook the chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside. -
Sauté aromatics:
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Cook the rice:
Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the oil and seasonings. Pour in chicken broth and milk, then bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is almost tender. -
Add broccoli and chicken:
Stir in the broccoli florets and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender, and the rice is fully cooked. -
Add cheese:
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If the mixture looks too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. -
Finish and serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired, cover for a minute to melt, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm.
4. Preparation & Cooking Time
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cooking time: 25 minutes
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Total time: 35 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 4 people
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 510 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 5 g
7. Tips
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Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to make the dish even faster.
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For extra flavor: Add a dash of Dijon mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
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Mix up the cheese: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a creamier texture.
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Make it creamy: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
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Reheat gently: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.
8. Final Thought
This Cheesy Chicken Skillet with Broccoli and Rice is the definition of cozy comfort food. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients — everything you love about a homemade meal in one easy skillet. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a go-to recipe that’ll make everyone at the table happy.
