Imagine a one-pan wonder that combines tender, juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice into a mouthwatering meal that will have your family begging for seconds. This Chicken Broccoli Rice Pilaf is not just a recipe – it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without spending hours cooking, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into small cubes, chopping the onion finely, and mincing the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Introduce diced chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper. Cook chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat the rice with oil and chicken drippings, toasting it lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets on top of the rice, keeping them partially steamed but still bright green and crisp.
- Remove from heat and let the pilaf rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and rice to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, gently mixing in the chicken and broccoli. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Rice Perfection: Toast the rice briefly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Chicken Tip: Ensure your chicken is cut into uniform, small cubes for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Broccoli Brilliance: Add broccoli during the last 5 minutes of cooking to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture.
- Flavor Boost: Use homemade or high-quality chicken broth for a more intense flavor profile.
- Resting is Key: Always let the pilaf rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and rice to absorb remaining moisture.
- Customization: Feel free to add additional herbs like thyme or rosemary, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
- Storage Hack: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
