This tasty chicken and broccoli dish is easy to make with Knorr rice, giving you a simple and complete meal! It’s packed with flavor and healthy veggies, making it a winner for dinner.
Plus, who can resist that tender chicken and crunchy broccoli combo? It’s one of my go-to meals for busy nights—I just cook everything in one pot and let it do its magic. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time and lean protein. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take longer.
Knorr Rice: Knorr rice mixes save time and add flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using quinoa or brown rice. Adjust the liquid and cooking time according to package instructions for best results!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are my favorite for crunch. However, frozen broccoli is super convenient and works well too. Just make sure to adjust cooking time as frozen florets might need a bit longer to thaw and cook.
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer olive oil for its health benefits, but butter gives a rich flavor. You can also use a cooking spray for an even lighter option if you’re watching your calories.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Tender?
To keep your chicken breasts juicy, the searing process is crucial. Doesn’t need to be perfect, but here’s how:
- Use medium heat for even cooking without burning.
- Sear for just 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown, not cooked through.
- Keep the foil tightly covered while baking to trap steam and moisture.
- Let it rest after baking before slicing. This keeps the juices inside!
Following these steps will help you enjoy perfectly cooked chicken each time!
Best Chicken Breast and Broccoli with Knorr Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet Knorr rice (such as Knorr Chicken or Garlic & Herb rice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 1/4 cups water (for cooking the rice as per Knorr instructions)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheese or cheese sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, so you can have everything on the table in about 40 minutes. Quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready when you finish preparing the dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, remove them from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Rice:
In a baking dish, prepare the Knorr rice according to package instructions, using 1 1/4 cups of water. Spread the rice evenly across the dish, ensuring it’s nice and level.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Now, place the seared chicken breasts right on top of the uncooked rice. This will allow the flavors to mingle as it cooks. Scatter the broccoli florets around the chicken and rice in the dish; they will steam nicely while it bakes!
5. Add Some Moisture:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter over the broccoli and rice. It will help to keep everything moist and delicious!
6. Season and Cover:
Sprinkle chopped parsley evenly over the chicken and broccoli for a pop of color and flavor. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to lock in steam while it bakes.
7. Bake It:
Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the rice is tender.
8. Optional Cheese Finish:
If you like, during the last 5 minutes of baking, uncover the dish and sprinkle shredded cheese or pour cheese sauce over the chicken for an extra creamy finish!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
After removing from the oven, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before slicing the chicken. Serve the sliced chicken over the cooked rice and broccoli, spooning any pan juices over the top for added flavor. Enjoy!
This comforting, all-in-one meal featuring juicy chicken breast, tender broccoli, and flavorful Knorr rice is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in this recipe. Just add it directly to the dish without thawing. It will cook perfectly while baking and absorb all the flavors. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or cheese sauce. You can also use dairy-free butter or oil for cooking, and season it with a bit of lemon juice or nutritional yeast for added flavor!
Can I Cook This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! To adapt the recipe for a slow cooker, combine the uncooked rice and water at the bottom, place the seared chicken and broccoli on top, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out!
