Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that comes together easily.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 pound diced chicken breast
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter/avocado oil)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
2. Step 2: Add the diced chicken breast and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Step 4: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still vibrant green.
5. Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked rice and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is well combined and creamy.
7. Step 7: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, give one last stir, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor if preferred.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid a soggy dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats well and can be portioned into containers for convenient, tasty meals throughout the week.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 61 reviews

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal that combines tender diced chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and cooked rice, all enveloped in a rich and velvety Parmesan cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, delivering a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and creamy indulgence with every bite.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Vegetables

• 1 lb diced chicken breast
• 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh

Base

• 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

Dairy and Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. This prepares the pan for cooking the chicken evenly and prevents sticking.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the hot oil and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, ensuring maximum flavor and perfect texture.
3. Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute while stirring continuously. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can develop bitterness and affect the dish’s taste.
4. Incorporate Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn tender but retain a vibrant green color and slight crunch.
5. Pour in the Cream: Slowly add 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
6. Mix in Rice and Cheese: Add the cooked rice and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir once more to combine and serve the dish hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken breast with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Cauliflower rice can be used to reduce carbs and calories.
• Other vegetables like spinach or green beans can replace broccoli if preferred.
• Grated Pecorino Romano can substitute Parmesan cheese if needed.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

Keywords: Parmesan chicken, creamy chicken rice, broccoli rice skillet, one-pan chicken dinner, Parmesan chicken recipe, creamy broccoli chicken, quick chicken rice meal