Description
One-Pan Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup heavy cream
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sear on both sides until golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add rice, chicken broth, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the skillet from the oven, uncover, and add broccoli and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy a hearty and wholesome meal all in one pan!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 400 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole. First, ensure your skillet is oven-safe. Pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning; this ensures a better sear. When searing, do not move the chicken until it releases easily from the pan. After removing the chicken, deglaze the pan with a splash of broth to scrape up the flavorful browned bits before adding the garlic and rice. When baking covered, ensure the foil is tightly sealed to trap steam for perfectly cooked rice. After adding the broccoli and cheese, bake uncovered to achieve a golden, bubbly top without overcooking the vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a fresh element, serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the top. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce left in the pan. To elevate the presentation, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving.
How-to Summary
Sear seasoned chicken in an oven-safe skillet and set aside. Sauté garlic in the same pan, then add rice, broth, and seasonings. Return chicken to the pan, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove, stir in broccoli and cream, top with cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work excellently. They may require a slightly longer initial sear and will result in a richer, more flavorful dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble it up to the point before the first bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk.
Why is my rice still hard after baking?
This usually means the skillet wasn’t covered tightly enough, allowing steam to escape. Ensure a tight foil seal and verify your broth measurement is accurate.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but add it directly from frozen in Step 4. There’s no need to thaw, as it will cook perfectly during the final bake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken, as this steams instead of browns the meat. Do not skip the step of letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking; this allows the sauce to thicken. Using instant or quick-cook rice will result in a mushy texture, so always use standard long-grain white rice. Finally, do not stir the casserole after adding the cheese topping, as this will disrupt the creamy layer and prevent a nicely melted finish.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight, delivering minimal cleanup without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Its creamy, cheesy goodness and perfectly cooked components make it a guaranteed family favorite. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can master this versatile recipe and even adapt it to your personal tastes. It’s comfort food that is both satisfying and straightforward to prepare.