Dinner

One Pot Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Cheesy Sauce Recipe

ByRita Bennet February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

Introduction

This One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, cheesy meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, hearty brown rice, and steamed broccoli all cooked together, it’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

The image shows a close-up of a creamy chicken and broccoli rice dish in a silver pan. The dish has three main layers: tender, light brown pieces of chicken scattered throughout; small, bright green broccoli florets mixed evenly among the chicken; and soft, slightly shiny, light beige rice coating all the ingredients, giving the dish a thick, creamy texture. The mixture looks well blended with some small black pepper specks visible on the chicken and rice. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground pepper

1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 small breasts)
3 tbsp olive oil (divided)

½ white onion (chopped)
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup chicken broth

12 oz frozen steam-in-bag broccoli (cooked)
3 cups cooked brown rice
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese (or romano cheese or blend)

1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Place the chicken on a cutting board and cut into chunks or strips. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on both sides and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Step 5: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and let it cook down for 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Stir in the cooked broccoli, cooked brown rice, and return the chicken to the pot. Make sure the broccoli is cooked ahead of time according to package instructions.
Step 8: Stir the mixture a few times and cook for 2-3 minutes until the chicken and broccoli are heated through. Some broth should remain to help create a creamy sauce.

Step 9: Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese.
Step 10: Stir gently until the cheeses melt and everything is well combined.
Step 11: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for a better melt and flavor.
Swap the broccoli for other vegetables like peas or asparagus for variety.
Brown the chicken in batches if your pan is crowded to get a better sear.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up view of a creamy chicken and broccoli rice dish in a silver pot. It has three main layers: tender light beige chicken pieces that look moist, small cuts of bright green broccoli florets scattered evenly, and soft, creamy beige rice mixed throughout. The rice has a smooth texture surrounding the chicken and broccoli. The silver pot occupies the right and bottom edges with some sauce residue on its sides, while the dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute cooked white rice, but keep in mind it cooks faster and is softer, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it necessary to cook the broccoli beforehand?

For best results, cook the frozen steam-in-bag broccoli as instructed on the package before adding it to the pot. This ensures it heats through without becoming mushy.