In the hustle of everyday life, finding meals that are both satisfying and uncomplicated can feel like a small victory. Enter the one-Pan Chicken and Broccoli rice Skillet-a dish that brings comfort and convenience together in perfect harmony. this simple yet savory recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and wholesome rice, all cooked in a single skillet to create a hearty meal with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a busy weeknight chef or someone seeking a fuss-free flavor-packed dinner, this one-pan wonder promises to deliver nourishing goodness without the hassle.
one-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Skillet offers the ultimate harmony of bold flavors and effortless convenience, making weeknight dinners a joyous occasion. This dish combines succulent chicken, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, all coming together in a single skillet to deliver satisfying bites bursting with juicy texture and vibrant taste. Inspired by fast-paced kitchens looking to simplify without sacrificing depth, this recipe brings comfort and freshness to your table with bright herbs and easy-to-find staples.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
4 hearty servings
Difficulty Level
Easy – perfect for those new to skillet meals or anyone craving a fuss-free dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed until water runs clear
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Juice of ½ a lemon (for brightness)
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
- Optional: ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the chicken: Add the chicken pieces,sprinkle with salt,pepper,and smoked paprika,and sauté until golden and slightly crisp on the edges,about 5-6 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in diced onion and minced garlic.Cook until fragrant and translucent, roughly 2-3 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Incorporate the rice: Stir in the rinsed rice, coating each grain with the fragrant oils and aromatics. Toast for 1-2 minutes; this step enhances a nutty flavor and prevents rice from turning mushy.
- Add liquid and spices: Pour in chicken broth, dried thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Gently stir to combine and bring liquid to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the rice: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice cook for 10 minutes undisturbed. Avoid lifting the lid to maintain steam.
- Add broccoli and chicken: nestle broccoli florets and seared chicken on top of the partly cooked rice. Re-cover and cook another 8-10 minutes until rice is tender, broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender, and chicken is cooked through.
- Finish with freshness: Remove skillet from heat. Stir in lemon juice for brightness and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add vibrant color and fresh herbaceous notes.
Tips for Success
- use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier,more tender bites that won’t dry out during skillet cooking.
- Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and avoid a gummy texture.
- Keep the skillet covered tightly for steam-cooking rice and broccoli to perfection.
- For gluten-free or paleo options, substitute rice with cauliflower rice (add broccoli directly and adjust cooking time).
- Double the recipe to feed a crowd – just use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and increase cooking time slightly.
- Make ahead: Prepare the skillet up to step 6, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently with a splash of broth and finish cooking broccoli and chicken on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
This one-pan dinner is a full-flavored meal on its own, but for added indulgence, consider topping with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Pair with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to elevate the meal. toasted almonds or pine nuts add a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top before serving. For an extra pop of flavor,drizzle a little chili oil or soy sauce to taste.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
For more delicious one-pan meals, check out our Easy one-Pan Dinners Collection.To learn more about how to select the best chicken cuts for skillet cooking, visit Food Network’s guide.
Q&A
Q&A: One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Skillet – Simple & Savory
Q: What makes the One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Skillet a standout meal?
A: Its simplicity and wholesome flavor are the stars here. By cooking everything in one skillet, you get a savory, well-rounded dish without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. It’s a time-saver and a comfort-food win.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
A: Absolutely! The one-pan method cuts down on prep and cleanup time, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you wont something tasty but rapid.
Q: Can I customize the ingredients?
A: Definitely. While chicken and broccoli are the base, feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or use brown rice for a heartier texture. Herbs and spices can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Q: How do you ensure the rice cooks perfectly without burning?
A: Using the right amount of liquid and a moderate heat is key. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking, and covering the skillet lets the rice steam evenly with the chicken juices and broccoli, resulting in tender, flavorful grains.
Q: Is this dish family-kind?
A: Yes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy thanks to familiar flavors and a comforting texture. Plus,it’s a great way to sneak in veggies without a fuss.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
A: You can prepare components ahead-like chopping veggies or marinating chicken-but it’s best served fresh to enjoy the crispy edges on the chicken and the vibrant broccoli. Leftovers reheat well, though the broccoli may soften over time.
Q: What’s the secret to achieving that savory, satisfying flavor?
A: A blend of aromatic garlic, a touch of onion, and a savory broth base coalesce as the rice cooks, infusing every bite. Season generously but thoughtfully to balance the natural flavors of chicken and broccoli.
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: Yes, it offers a balanced meal with lean protein, fiber-rich broccoli, and hearty rice. Cooking everything together minimizes added fats, and you can control sodium levels by choosing low-sodium broth.
Q: Any tips for beginners trying this skillet meal for the first time?
A: Keep an eye on your heat settings and make sure your chicken pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Don’t rush the simmering step-it’s significant for the rice to absorb flavors and cook through gently.
Q: How versatile is this one-pan skillet concept?
A: It’s wildly versatile! This style of cooking lends itself to endless variations-try swapping chicken for shrimp, broccoli for asparagus, or white rice for quinoa. The key is layering flavors and ensuring balanced cooking time.
Concluding remarks
Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or simply craving a comforting, home-cooked meal, this One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Skillet delivers both ease and flavor in every bite. It’s a harmonious blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice-all coming together in one skillet for minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction. Give this simple, savory recipe a try the next time you want dinner that feels homemade without the hassle. After all, sometimes the best meals are the ones that bring everything to the table in one delicious pan.
