If you’re ready for a hearty, family-friendly meal that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet. This one-pan wonder brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli florets, all bathed in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. It’s weeknight cooking at its finest—quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to win over picky eaters while making cleanup a breeze. The Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet is destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how such a short list of humble staples creates a skillet full of color, texture, and big, comforting flavors. Each ingredient works in harmony to form a meal that’s more than the sum of its parts—here’s what you’ll need, and why you shouldn’t skip a thing.
- Chicken breasts: Lean, juicy, and packed with protein, these bite-sized pieces soak up all the flavors of the skillet.
- Olive oil: Just a spoonful helps achieve that wonderful golden sear on the chicken and softens the veggies perfectly.
- Onion: Adds a sweet, savory base that deepens as it cooks down into the sauce.
- Garlic: Two cloves bring a punch of aroma and warmth—don’t skimp for real flavor impact!
- Long-grain white rice: The perfect rice for a fluffy, non-gummy texture that soaks up every drop of creamy sauce.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the rice and chicken with rich, savory goodness while keeping things balanced and not too salty.
- Broccoli florets: Bring a pop of color, crisp-tender texture, and extra nutrition to the skillet.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Gives the dish that signature melty, cheesy richness—feel free to blend in a little mozzarella for an extra gooey finish.
- Heavy cream: The secret to a luscious, velvety sauce that wraps itself around every grain of rice.
- Paprika: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle smokiness that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning—taste and adjust as you go!
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of green at the end wakes up the whole dish and adds a restaurant-style touch.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a dusting of paprika to create a beautifully seasoned crust. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later—this step keeps it juicy while you finish the base of your Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, toss in your diced onion, letting it cook for a couple of minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and give it just 30 seconds to become fragrant. This creates a savory foundation that makes the next flavors pop and ensures no kissing of raw onion or garlic in the final bite.
Step 3: Toast the Rice & Add Broth
Now, stir in your uncooked long-grain white rice, letting it toast for a minute with the onions and garlic. This little step is a game-changer—it gives the rice extra depth and ensures it will be tender but never mushy. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything up to a bubble, then lower the heat. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all that savory goodness.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Crown your skillet with those bright broccoli florets. Pop the lid back on and let the dish cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. The broccoli becomes perfectly crisp-tender, adding texture and a fresh, green snap that balances all the creamy and cheesy elements in the Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet.
Step 5: Make It Creamy & Cheesy
Bring the chicken back to the party, and pour in the heavy cream. Sprinkle on the shredded cheddar cheese, then stir everything together until it’s thoroughly mixed and gloriously creamy. As the cheese melts, you’ll see that dreamy, irresistible sauce coming together, coating every bite in velvety richness. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a flourish of color and freshness!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet
Garnishes
Don’t skip the final touches! A generous handful of fresh chopped parsley adds a hit of brightness, making your Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet as pretty as it is delicious. For extra flavor, you could also finish with a pinch of paprika or a few grinds of black pepper right before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon offers a lovely twist.
Side Dishes
This dish is already a complete meal, but pairing it with crusty bread or a simple side salad really makes dinner feel special. I love serving it alongside a fresh cucumber-tomato salad or some roasted carrots for extra color on the plate. For a little indulgence, try garlic knots or a warm dinner roll to mop up the extra sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, bring the whole skillet to the table and let everyone scoop their own portion—it invites conversation and seconds! You can also portion the Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet into individual bowls for meal prepping. If you’re hosting, try serving in hollowed-out bread bowls or as a filling for stuffed bell peppers for a fun, unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for lunches or a ready-to-go dinner.
Freezing
If you’ve made a double batch (always a good idea), you can freeze individual portions of the skillet. Place the cooled mixture in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It will keep nicely for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave single servings or return larger amounts to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and revive its creamy consistency. Stir gently to keep everything tender and that cheesy sauce extra luscious.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer simmer time and extra liquid, often about 10-15 more minutes and a half cup more broth. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
What other vegetables can I add?
Don’t be afraid to get creative—peas, diced bell pepper, or even spinach are fantastic in this skillet. Stir in quick-cooking veggies with the broccoli or fold in leafy greens right before serving for extra color and nutrition.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
Definitely. Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, whole milk, or Greek yogurt. You’ll still get a creamy, satisfying texture, but with less richness. Consider using reduced-fat cheese, too.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use your favorite non-dairy cheese and swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative such as coconut milk or unsweetened soy cream. The flavor will change slightly, but you’ll still love the creaminess!
Will the recipe work with rotisserie or leftover chicken?
Great shortcut! Just dice or shred your cooked chicken and stir it in during the last step when you add the cream and cheese. No need to sear—just reheat and blend with the other ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Give this Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet a try the next time you’re craving something cozy, quick, and packed with flavor. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but satisfying enough to serve to friends, and I know you’ll love how easily it comes together. Trust me—one taste and it’ll be a regular in your recipe rotation!
Print
Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a cheesy cream sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces;
For the Skillet:
1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 small onion, diced, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked, 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 2 cups broccoli florets, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper to taste, fresh parsley for garnish.
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Brown chicken in olive oil in a skillet. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Skillet: Cook onion until softened, then add garlic. Toast rice, pour in broth, and simmer covered.
- Add Broccoli and Cheese: Stir in broccoli, then return chicken to skillet. Add cream and cheese, stirring until creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
