Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces (20 oz)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup uncooked regular long-grain white rice
- 2 1/2 cups Progresso™ chicken broth (from a 32-oz carton, low sodium)
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (1 large)
- 2 1/2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (8 oz)
Steps:
- Sauté Chicken:
- In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, salt, and pepper. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Add Rice and Chicken Broth:
- Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Heat the mixture to boiling.
- Simmer Rice Mixture:
- Cook over medium-high heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Vegetables:
- Add the chopped red bell pepper, broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet.
- Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Cheese Finish:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Cover the skillet and let it stand for 1 to 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve and Enjoy! 🍲
- Dish out this delicious one-pot meal onto plates and savor the cheesy goodness. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner, perfect for those with a busy schedule or in need of a simple meal while recovering from an injury.
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and additional liquid.
- What can I use as a substitute for chicken breasts?
- You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Is there a low-carb alternative to rice?
- Cauliflower rice is a popular low-carb substitute that you can use in place of traditional rice.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble and cook when ready to serve.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Replace the chicken with plant-based protein alternatives, such as tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Add it directly to the skillet without thawing, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- What other cheese options can I use?
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover cheesy chicken, rice, and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- Freezing may alter the texture of the rice, but you can freeze the components separately and assemble after thawing.
- How can I add more flavor to the dish?
- Enhance the flavor by adding herbs such as thyme, oregano, or garlic powder during cooking. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice for a burst of citrus.
- What size skillet should I use?
- A 12-inch nonstick skillet is recommended for this recipe. If using a smaller skillet, you may need to adjust ingredient quantities accordingly.
- Can I use pre-cooked rice to save time?
- While it’s possible, using uncooked rice allows it to absorb the flavors of the dish better. If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop and in one pot?
- Yes, this recipe is designed to be cooked in a single skillet on the stovetop for easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
- Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
- Absolutely! Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or spinach to suit your taste preferences. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
