One-Pan Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice

Conquer busy weeknights with this one-pan wonder! Our One-Pan Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice is packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and cleans up in a snap. No more scrambling for ingredients or spending hours over a hot stove. This recipe is your secret weapon for delicious and stress-free weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Love:

• 6 Chicken Drumsticks
• 2 Boxes Broccoli and Cheddar Rice-A-Roni
• 2 Cups Broccoli Florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 Tsp Kosher Salt
• 1 Tsp Paprika
• 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 Tsp Adobo Seasoning
• 1/2 Tsp Cumin
• 1/2 Tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/2 Tsp Dried Oregano
• 2 Tbsp Butter
• 5 Cups Water (for 2 boxes, 2 1/2 cups for 1)
• Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Easy Steps to Weeknight Bliss:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients for a smooth cooking process.
2. Season your chicken drumsticks generously with salt, paprika, garlic powder, adobo, cumin, thyme, and oregano. Don’t forget to get under the skin for maximum flavor! Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat.
3. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan. Sear the chicken drumsticks over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the butter to the pan and melt it over medium heat. Stir in the contents of the two boxes of Broccoli and Cheddar Rice-A-Roni.
5. Pour in the water and the rice mix, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Arrange the broccoli florets on top of the rice mixture. Nestle the seared chicken drumsticks back into the pan.
7. Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is cooked through, with all the liquid absorbed.
8. Take the pan out of the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking and fluff up perfectly.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for an extra pop of color (optional).

Why This Recipe is a Winner:

• Short on Time? No Problem! This recipe is all about minimal prep and cleanup, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Everything cooks together in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Flavorful and Balanced: Get a complete and satisfying meal in one dish. The chicken provides protein, the broccoli adds essential nutrients, and the cheesy rice brings comforting goodness to the table.
• Picky Eaters? We Got You Covered! The creamy cheese sauce and fluffy rice are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making this a perfect recipe for families with even the pickiest eaters.
• Love to Customize? Be Creative! This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Feel free to swap the chicken drumsticks for thighs or breasts, or add your favorite vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique flavor profile.

So ditch the takeout menus and simplify your weeknight routine with this delicious and convenient One-Pan Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice. Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without the stress!