Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Skillet

Need 21 Kid Approved Easy Dinners This cheesy chicken broccoli rice skillet is a onepan wonder even picky eaters love Quick easy ready in 30 Get the recipe ... Quick & Easy Recipes
Recipe Introduction
Stuck for Family Dinner For Picky Eaters ideas? Honestly, sometimes it feels like a full-time job just figuring out what to cook.
Let's be real, finding 21 Kid Approved Easy Dinners that everyone will actually eat is like winning the lottery.
Cheesy Dreams in a Skillet: Quick Hook
Have you ever wished dinner could just magically appear? This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet is practically magic! It’s cheesy, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes .
We're talking serious Quick family meals vibes here.
One-Pan Wonder: Brief Overview
This dish is pure comfort food, think a creamy, cheesy hug in a bowl! It’s a take on classic Foods Kids Will Eat .
This skillet recipe is easy, ready in 30 minutes, and serves 4-6 hungry people. It's the definition of Easy skillet recipes .
Why This Recipe Rocks: Main Benefits
Broccoli is kinda good for you, right? Sneaking veggies into Chicken Meals For Picky Eaters ? It's a win-win! This One pan meals for kids dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
It’s quick, easy, and all made in one pan . Hello, easy clean-up! Plus, it's definitely a Cheap Dinners For Picky Eaters option.
Let's dive into the ingredients for this Weeknight dinners for kids .
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Skillet Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Arsenal for 21 Kid Approved Easy Dinners
Alright, so you're aiming to create these 21 Kid Approved Easy Dinners , right? That means we gotta keep it simple.
Let's break down what you'll need for my Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet – this is perfect for those picky eater kids meals .
Honestly, it's one of those foods kids will eat , even if they're being a bit fussy. I remember my little niece refusing everything except chicken nuggets once – this was the only real food she touched all week.
Main Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Yum
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . This is just for sautéing, so any oil you have lurking in the cupboard will do.
- Chicken breasts: 1 pound (450g) , cut into 1-inch cubes . Get good quality chicken – it just tastes better, you know?
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon (2.5g)
- Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 1 cup/150g )
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced
- Long-grain rice: 1 cup (200g) – nothing fancy, just your basic rice.
- Chicken broth: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Broccoli florets: 1 cup (100g) . Pre-cut ones are a lifesaver on those weeknight dinners for kids .
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup (100g) , shredded. Go for the good stuff here – it melts better.
- Milk or cream: ½ cup (120 ml) – milk works fine, but cream makes it extra lush.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (30g) , cut into chunks
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish.
Seasoning Notes: Adding a Dash of Magic
The salt and pepper are essential, obvs. But the garlic and onion really boost the flavour. A little sprinkle of garlic powder is a cheat's trick for extra oomph.
For a bit of warmth, a pinch of paprika works wonders. If your little ones are adventurous, a tiny dash of chilli flakes can add a subtle kick.
These simple chicken meals for picky eaters are elevated to the next level with easy flavor enhancers.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!
- A large skillet, preferably non-stick, with a lid. A decent non-stick is key for those easy skillet recipes .
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- A cutting board and a knife.
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
No need for any fancy gadgets here. We are aiming for 30 minute family meals or even quick family meals .
This is all about making cheap dinners for picky eaters and creating a family dinner for picky eaters without needing every tool in the kitchen, or spending hours preparing it.
We are talking about one pan meals for kids that require minimal effort and equipment!

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet: Weeknight Dinners for Kids Made Easy!
Honestly, finding foods kids will eat can feel like a full-time job. We all want to put the family's health as first.
That is why the best way to achieve this is 30 minute family meals with healthy ingredients. As busy parents, we need quick family meals and cheap dinners for picky eaters that don't taste, well, cheap! That's why I'm kicking off my series of 21 Kid Approved Easy Dinners with this winner.
This is a one pan meals for kids style recipe.
This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet is a lifesaver! It's a great option for Chicken Meals For Picky Eaters , and it's ready in about 30 minutes .
Plus , cleanup is a breeze because it's all made in one pan – bonus points, am I right? I've used my own experience when I faced challenges on busy weeknights to find the perfect balance of taste and ease.
Prep Steps: Your Secret Weapon!
- Essential mise en place : Chop 1 medium onion (150g) , mince 2 cloves of garlic , cube 1 pound (450g) of chicken , and measure your ingredients.
- Time-saving organization: Pre-cut broccoli saves time! I swear by it, and have done that since my little lad was a toddler. If you have extra time, shred your own cheese, it melts better.
- Safety first: Always use a clean cutting board and knife.
Step-by-Step to Cheesy Goodness!
- Sauté Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound (450g) of chicken with 1 teaspoon (5g) of salt and ½ teaspoon (2.5g) of black pepper . Cook until browned, about 5- 7 minutes .
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3- 5 minutes .
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in 1 cup (200g) long-grain rice and 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth . Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer and Cook Rice: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes , or until rice is cooked.
- Add Broccoli and Cheese: Stir in 1 cup (100g) broccoli florets , ½ cup (120 ml) milk or cream , and 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese .
- Melt Cheese and Finish: Cover again and cook until broccoli is tender-crisp and cheese is melted, about 3- 5 minutes . Stir in 2 tablespoons (30g) of butter and mix in until it is completely dissolved.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Skillet Game!
- Expert Technique: Browning the chicken first gives it a lovely flavour. It also can be done using Easy skillet recipes like this one.
- Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook the rice! Nobody wants mushy rice, you know? Keep an eye on the liquid.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep all your veggies ahead of time.
- Taste the recipe before serving, you might add a pinch more salt.
- Don´t be afraid to add more cheese, that's for sure foods kids will eat .
Honestly, this cheesy chicken and broccoli rice skillet is a Family Dinner For Picky Eaters game-changer. Even my little one, who thinks he doesn’t like broccoli, gobbles it down.
Give it a go, and let me know what you think! I really hope this recipe helps your family, is great to spend time with them and improve their meals.
Alright, let's get to the nitty-gritty!
Recipe Notes
Let's chat about all the little things that'll make this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet a smashing success. Honestly, sometimes the "little things" are the biggest things, you know? I learned that the hard way, haha!
Serving It Up Right
Thinking about presentation? Plating is key! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or some sliced green onions makes it look all fancy pants.
For sides, keep it simple. A crisp green salad cuts through the richness of the cheese. Or, let’s be real, some garlic bread never hurt anyone! It can easily become one of the favorite Picky Eater Kids Meals.
Storage Savvy
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This skillet reheats like a dream. Pop it in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely first. Then, portion it out into freezer-safe bags. When you are tired of Chicken Meals For Picky Eaters try ground beef or turkey meals for picky eaters.
It will last up to 2 months. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Mix It Up!
Want to shake things up? You can make this a vegetarian meal with chickpeas or beans. For a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes is fab! Remember to ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free for a gluten-free meal! Seasonal ingredient swaps would be using asparagus in the spring or butternut squash in the fall.
Foods Kids Will Eat, when it's made with ingredients they recognize.
Nutrition Lowdown
Okay, let's keep this simple. This skillet has protein, carbs, and veggies. You are getting a balanced meal! The chicken is great for muscle building and the broccoli has vitamins.
There are many Cheap Dinners For Picky Eaters that are cheap to make, and healthy to eat!. Just be mindful of the cheese – everything in moderation, right? This quick family meal is ready in a flash, and it has everything that is needed for a nutritional meal.
So there you have it! Everything you need to know to make this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet a total winner.
I hope this will turn into a tradition for Family Dinner For Picky Eaters, and that this 30 minute family meals makes its way on your Weeknight Dinners For Kids menu! Go on, give it a go – I reckon you'll nail it! These easy skillet recipes and one pan meals for kids are perfect for those nights when you're short on time.
Now, let's get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet ahead of time?
You betcha! This dish is great for meal prepping. Just cook it as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it seems a little dry. It's like having a ready meal from M&S but tastier and healthier!
My kids are super picky eaters. Any tips to get them to eat this from the "21 Kid Approved Easy Dinners" list?
I hear you, mate! Picky eaters are a challenge. Try cutting the chicken and broccoli into smaller pieces so they're less intimidating. You can also offer a small spoonful of ketchup or their favorite dipping sauce on the side (everything tastes better dipped!). And don't underestimate the power of a fun name – "Cheesy Chicken Treasure Rice" might just do the trick!
Can I freeze this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet for later?
Freezing is a good shout! Let the cooked skillet cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight, then reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be aware that the texture of the rice and broccoli might change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or cannellini beans for a boost of plant-based protein. You could also add some extra veggies like chopped bell peppers or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the veggies are cooked through but not mushy.
What other kinds of cheese work well in this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Skillet?
Good question! While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan will give it a more Italian feel. Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are also good options for a milder flavor. Just remember that some cheeses melt better than others, so stick with varieties that are known for their creamy texture when melted. A little bit of cream cheese added to the sauce can also make it extra luscious.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier "21 Kid Approved Easy Dinners" meal?
You certainly can! Brown rice will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You may also need to add a bit more chicken broth to ensure the rice cooks through without drying out. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.