One Pan Cheesy Chicken: Quick Comfort Food for Families

Name: One Pan Cheesy Chicken: Quick Comfort Food for Families
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

by Manar Jota

October 22, 2025

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One Pan Cheesy Chicken is a quick and satisfying meal that brings comfort to your dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh broccoli, all enveloped in gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to create a wholesome and delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish that will surely become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Cheesy Chicken

This One Pan Cheesy Chicken recipe is a weeknight hero for so many reasons. Firstly, it’s an easy one pan chicken dish, meaning you can whip it up without the stress of cleaning multiple dishes. Secondly, it’s a cheesy chicken skillet that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Thirdly, it combines chicken, rice, and vegetables, making it a complete meal in one go. Additionally, it’s a healthy one pan cheesy chicken option, using low-sodium broth and fresh broccoli. With a total time of just 35 minutes, it’s a quick cheesy chicken meal that fits into even the busiest schedules. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, the leftovers are perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for those who need to plan ahead.

Ingredients for One Pan Cheesy Chicken

Gather these items:

2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups broccoli florets
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pan Cheesy Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned.
Step 2: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 3: Stir in the white rice, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Allow the rice and chicken to cook for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Add broccoli florets, stir gently, and cover again. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is tender and the broccoli is bright green.
Step 6: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover and let stand for 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted. Serve hot.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pan Cheesy Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavors.
Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
If you want a little heat, add some red pepper flakes.
Stovetop cooking is ideal for this dish as it allows for a quick and efficient meal prep.

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Cheesy Chicken

This dish goes well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added freshness. For a cheesy chicken dinner idea, pair it with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Cheesy Chicken

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it back in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave until hot. This makes it a fantastic one pan cheesy chicken for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Cheesy Chicken

What is One Pan Cheesy Chicken?

One Pan Cheesy Chicken is a quick and satisfying meal that combines chicken, rice, and vegetables, all cooked in one skillet. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I make One Pan Cheesy Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply cook it and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent option for busy schedules.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Cheesy Chicken?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the chicken is cut evenly, and don’t skip the simmering step to allow the rice to cook fully. This will ensure a perfect dish every time.

Variations of One Pan Cheesy Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to customize this dish! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more color and nutrition. For a twist, try a simple cheesy chicken casserole by baking it in the oven with a breadcrumb topping. You can also experiment with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in other chicken dishes, you might enjoy Peruvian Chicken and Rice or Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry. Additionally, learn more about the health benefits of broccoli here.