Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 package of Knorr’s rice (your choice of flavor)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli:
- In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken pieces to the skillet and season with lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the Broccoli:
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Cook for a few minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside with the cooked chicken.
- Prepare the Rice:
- Cook the Knorr’s rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling water, adding the rice mix, and simmering until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Combine Chicken, Broccoli, Rice, and Cheese:
- Once the rice is cooked, add the cooked chicken and broccoli back into the skillet with the rice.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bind everything together.
- Serve:
- Remove the lid and gently stir the cheesy chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy your easy, cheesy, and comforting chicken, broccoli, and rice dish!
This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner and can be customized with different seasonings or additional vegetables to suit your taste.
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli? A1: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets in this recipe. Just thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding to the skillet. Keep in mind that frozen broccoli may cook a bit faster than fresh broccoli, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I use brown rice instead of the Knorr’s rice packet? A2: Certainly! You can substitute the Knorr’s rice packet with cooked brown rice or any other type of rice you prefer. Prepare the rice separately according to the package instructions or your preferred method before combining it with the chicken and broccoli.
Q3: Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time and reheat it? A3: Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the cheesy chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the dish’s moisture, then microwave or reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese? A4: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for variety. Choose a cheese that melts well for the best creamy texture.
Q5: How long will the leftovers last in the refrigerator? A5: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to reheat the dish thoroughly before serving again.
Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A6: Yes, you can add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas to enhance the nutritional value and color of the dish. Simply sauté them along with the chicken and broccoli until they are tender.
Q7: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A7: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free rice packet or substituting it with naturally gluten-free grains like quinoa or gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that the seasonings and chicken broth used are gluten-free.
Q8: What can I serve as a side dish with this meal? A8: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of steamed asparagus. A crusty bread or dinner rolls can also be served on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.