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Cheesy Broccoli & Chicken Rice

Cheesy Broccoli & Chicken Rice

Savor the flavor with Cheesy Broccoli & Chicken Rice! A delicious blend of tender chicken, broccoli, and cheesy rice for a comforting meal.
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Equipment

  • Large skillet or pan
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb Chicken Breast boneless & skinless
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika
  • For the Rice:
  • 1 cup White Long Grain Rice Basmati can be used
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 tsp Chicken Bouillon

For the Vegetables:

  • 1 Onion chopped
  • 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
  • 2 cups Broccoli chopped into small bite-sized pieces

For the Seasoning and Sauce:

  • 2 Tbsp Butter
  • 1 Tbsp Ranch Seasoning dry seasoning
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded and divided

Instructions
 

Chicken Preparation and Cooking:

  • Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until seared, golden brown, and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Vegetable and Rice Preparation:

  • In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in white long grain rice, ensuring it's fully coated with butter and onions. Add dry ranch seasoning mix and chicken bouillon powder, evenly distributing throughout the rice.

Cooking and Final Assembly:

  • Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
  • Add 1 cup of cheese, chopped broccoli, and cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the rice. Stir to combine, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until broccoli is tender and chicken is heated through.
  • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Notes

Is Freezing an Option?
Certainly! This dish freezes wonderfully. Portion it into containers suitable for individual servings and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as indicated above. Ideal for those evenings when cooking seems like a chore!
Can It Be Prepared in Advance?
Absolutely! Complete the preparation process up to the step of adding the final cheese topping. Allow it to cool, then refrigerate. When you're ready, top it with cheese and bake in the oven at 350°F for approximately 15-20 minutes. It's a fantastic way to save time!