This One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Zucchini & Rice dish is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and creamy cheese all cooked together with rice for a simple meal.
I love that everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting but easy to whip up. Who doesn’t enjoy cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs, which can add more flavor.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best, but jasmine rice is a fantastic alternative for a fragrant touch. If you’re short on time, instant rice can work too, just reduce the cooking time as directed on the package!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture and color. You can use yellow squash as a substitute or even chopped bell peppers if zucchini isn’t available.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives a lovely creaminess. If you want something different, blend in mozzarella for a stretchier texture! Dairy-free cheese could also work if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to this entire dish turning out wonderful. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. This enhances their flavor.
- Brown the chicken on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes. You want them golden on the outside, and they will finish cooking later.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
Remember, they’ll continue cooking with the rice, so don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked at this stage. Enjoy making this dish!
One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Zucchini & Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend like mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, bringing the total to around 40 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a cheesy, comforting meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and cook for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned but not fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, making sure not to burn it.
3. Add Rice and Broth:
Stir the uncooked rice into the pot, mixing it with the onion and garlic for about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, and return the browned chicken to the pot.
4. Cook the Zucchini and Season:
Add the diced zucchini, dried Italian seasoning, and paprika. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Add the Cheese:
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt and create a creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth or milk to adjust it to your liking.
6. Final Touches:
Taste the dish and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and comforting One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Zucchini & Rice!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can! However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to increase the simmering time to about 30-40 minutes. Additionally, you may need to add a little more chicken broth.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No worries! You can replace zucchini with other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut milk or a similar non-dairy product for creaminess. Just make sure to check the labels for any unwanted ingredients!
