One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa
There’s something truly comforting about a dish that brings together the best flavors of home-cooked meals. That’s why I love the One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa. It’s a recipe that reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family, laughter filling the air, and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. When I first decided to create this dish, I was inspired by the simplicity and the joy of cooking in one pan. It’s all about convenience without sacrificing flavor, and this recipe truly delivers on that promise.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
15 mins
20 mins
Easy
450 kcal
38 g
Gluten-Free
15 g
Skillet, Cutting Board, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife
Why This One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa Stands Out
Easy Clean-Up
One of the best things about the One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa is that it all comes together in one pan. You don’t need to worry about multiple pots and pans cluttering your kitchen. Simply toss everything together, and you’ll have a delicious meal without the hassle of extensive clean-up.
Flavor Packed
This dish is full of flavor, thanks to the combination of seasoned chicken, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that keeps you coming back for more. The savory notes from the chicken and the creaminess of the cheese melt together, creating an irresistible dish.
Healthy Ingredients
With wholesome ingredients like quinoa, broccoli, and chicken, you can feel good about what you’re serving. Quinoa is packed with protein and fiber, while broccoli brings a dose of vitamins to your plate. The One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa is not just comforting; it’s a nutritious choice as well.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, the One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa fits the bill. You can easily scale it up for a crowd or whip it up for a cozy family meal.
Customizable
You can personalize this dish to suit your tastes. Add your favorite vegetables, swap out the cheese for something different, or spice it up with your favorite seasonings. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun dish to experiment with.
Family Friendly
This dish is a hit with both kids and adults. The cheesy flavor appeals to picky eaters, while the healthy ingredients give parents peace of mind. It’s the kind of meal that encourages everyone to gather around the table.
One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa Shopping List
When it comes to the One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa, the ingredients work harmoniously to create an easy yet fulfilling meal. Each component plays a crucial role, from the protein-packed chicken to the vibrant broccoli and hearty quinoa. These key players not only elevate the dish but also make it a wholesome choice for any day of the week.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can low sodium chicken broth (about 1 3/4 cup)
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 2 1/2 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar (about 1 cup)
How to Cook One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa
Cooking the One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa is as simple as it sounds. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time. Each step is designed to ensure that the flavors meld beautifully.
- Start by heating olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when you add the onion. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about two minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Now, add the diced chicken to the skillet. Cook for two and a half minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be lightly browned on the outside but not fully cooked through yet.
- Next, introduce the minced garlic. Cooking it for about one minute will infuse the dish with an aromatic flavor that’s irresistible.
- Now it’s time to add the chicken broth, quinoa, and dried thyme. Season this mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring everything to a full boil.
- Once boiling, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to a simmer, and let it cook for twelve minutes. The quinoa will absorb the broth, making it fluffy and delicious.
- After twelve minutes, quickly lift the lid and sprinkle the chopped broccoli over the cooked mixture. Cover again and simmer for an additional eight minutes. This step ensures the broccoli retains its vibrant color and crunch.
- After the final simmer, it’s time to finish the dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top, cover again, and let it heat for one to two minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
- Give it a gentle stir to combine everything. If there’s excess broth, drain it carefully, but keep a little for moisture.
- Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness of your One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa.
Things Worth Knowing
- Watch the heat: Make sure to sauté the onions and chicken at the right temperature to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Quinoa rinsing: Rinse your quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness from the natural coating.
- Broccoli timing: Adding the broccoli later in the cooking process keeps it vibrant and crunchy.
- Cheese melting: Cover the pan after adding the cheddar to trap heat and ensure it melts evenly.
Helpful Notes about One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa
Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience with the One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa. These insights will help you make the most of this delicious recipe.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze the dish after cooking. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months.
- Pairing: Serve this dish with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to make a complete meal.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to add variety.
- Serving size: This recipe yields four servings, making it perfect for a small family or meal prep for the week.
Serving Ideas for One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa
When it comes time to serve your One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa, think about how to complement this wholesome meal with the perfect accompaniments.
- Weeknight Dinner: This dish makes for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- Meal Prep: Consider making a larger batch on Sundays for easy reheating during the busy week ahead.
- Family Gatherings: Serve it family-style in the pan for a casual gathering, allowing everyone to dig in.
- Seasonal Pairing: In the fall, consider adding roasted squash for a seasonal twist.
- Lunch Box: Pack leftovers in lunch boxes for a healthy meal on the go.
- Comfort Food: This dish is the ultimate comfort food that is sure to please everyone at the table.
FAQ
Conclusion
The One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa is a delightful blend of comfort and nutrition, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its cheesy goodness and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that everyone will love. I encourage you to try this recipe; it might just become a new favorite in your household!
One Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa
Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Saucepan
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 can low sodium chicken broth (14.5 oz, about 1 3/4 cup)
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 2 1/2 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar (about 1 cup)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add onion and sauté 2 minutes, then add chicken and cook 2 1/2 minutes stirring occasionally. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute longer (chicken should be cooked on outsides but inside doesn't need to be fully cooked through at this point because it will boil and simmer).
- Add in chicken broth, quinoa and thyme and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring to a full boil then cover, reduce heat to a simmer and cook 12 minutes.
- Then quickly lift lid, sprinkle broccoli over top, recover and simmer about 8 minutes longer or until quinoa and broccoli have cooked through (it may have a little broth in the bottom still at this point and you can carefully drain it off if desired, just don't pour everything down the drain!).
- Sprinkle cheese over top, cover and heat 1 - 2 minutes until cheese has melted.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the dish after cooking. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months.
- Tip 3: Serve this dish with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to make a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to add variety.
- Tip 5: This recipe yields four servings, making it perfect for a small family or meal prep for the week.
