Here is the complete recipe for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice:
Ingredients:
* 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
* 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, whichever you prefer)
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large, oven-safe skillet (about 12 inches in diameter), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, warmed rice, and browned chicken back to the skillet. Stir to combine, then add the shredded cheddar cheese and dried thyme.
6. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the chicken and rice mixture.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked, the chicken is tender, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the lemon juice (if using) over the top.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips on correct cooking techniques:
* Make sure to brown the chicken thoroughly before setting it aside to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
* Use a mixture of white and brown rice for added texture and flavor.
* Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
* Add the broccoli towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
* If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
* Avoid opening the oven door during the 25-30 minute cooking time, as this can cause the cheese to not melt properly.
Variations:
* Spicy Chicken Broccoli and Rice: Add 1-2 teaspoons of diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
* Shrimp and Broccoli: Substitute 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the chicken.
* Bacon and Cheddar: Add 2-3 slices of crispy cooked bacon, crumbled, and an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
* Mediterranean Twist: Add 1 cup of sliced Kalamata olives, 1 cup of sliced artichoke hearts, and 2 cloves of minced fresh rosemary to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
* Mexican-Style: Add 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed, and 1 cup of diced bell peppers (any color) to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
This recipe is extremely versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own unique version!
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