Chicken With Creamy Broccoli Rice
A hearty and creamy chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered with broccoli, carrots, and a savory cream of broccoli sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter or heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Brown the chicken breasts for 3 minutes on each side, then remove from the skillet.
- In the same skillet, combine the condensed cream of broccoli soup, milk, and pepper.
- Stir in the broccoli and carrots.
- Return the chicken to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite herbs or spices before cooking. For a healthier twist, substitute half of the cream of broccoli soup with Greek yogurt or a homemade broccoli puree. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious alternative. If using frozen broccoli, add it to the skillet a bit later to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Oven Baked Chicken Supreme for a delightful dinner spread. For a heartier option, consider adding some cooked sausage or beans to the rice mixture for added protein and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or water to keep the dish moist. You can also microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Creamy Broccoli Rice contains roughly 1279 calories, with 21g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (240% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 741mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the vegetables you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and vegetables, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine and heat until warmed through. This is a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for instant rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so be sure to follow the package instructions for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).