When the afternoon slump hits and you want something nourishing but not complicated, this high protein chicken broccoli rice steps in just right. It’s not about fancy techniques or exotic ingredients—just a straightforward dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The kind of meal you can come back to again and again, even on those days when you’re juggling a million things and barely have time to breathe.
I remember the first time I made this recipe, the kitchen smelled like a cozy little cafe, with garlic and herbs mingling while the rice simmered gently. I was halfway through chopping the broccoli when my phone buzzed—one of those texts that pulled me away for a minute or two longer than I meant. When I returned, the chicken was perfectly golden, and the broccoli still bright green and tender. It wasn’t flawless timing, but somehow, that little distraction made the meal feel more real, more lived in. And honestly, it tasted just as good, maybe even better.
- Combines lean protein, fiber, and veggies in one simple skillet—minimal mess, maximum nutrition.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No fancy tools or ingredients, just honest cooking.
- Fluffy brown rice soaks up all the savory juices, making every bite satisfying.
- Broccoli adds a fresh crunch, but it’s steamed just right to stay tender, not mushy.
- Parmesan cheese adds a subtle richness without overpowering the other flavors.
Sometimes, when life gets busy, I remind myself that meals like this don’t have to be complicated to be good. If you’re worried about timing or juggling dinner with other things, this recipe is forgiving enough to handle a small pause or two. And if you want to prep ahead, it stores well in the fridge for a few days, ready to reheat on those evenings when you just can’t face cooking.
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High Protein Chicken Broccoli Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A nutritious and high-protein meal featuring tender chicken breast, steamed broccoli, and fluffy brown rice, perfect for a balanced lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
1 cup brown rice, rinsed
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed brown rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme.
Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet with 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and steam for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli.
Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
Remove from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture. Stir to combine.
Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Don’t worry about fancy kitchen gadgets here—just a good skillet and a pot for the rice. When I serve this, I usually pair it with a crisp side salad or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the last bits on the plate. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, swapping Parmesan for a sprinkle of feta or adding a handful of toasted nuts can add an interesting twist, though I haven’t tested those as thoroughly. You might also try swapping broccoli for green beans or adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
FAQ
Can I use white rice instead of brown? Yes, but cooking times will be shorter and texture different. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? You can freeze leftovers, but the broccoli may get a bit softer after thawing.
Can I make this vegetarian? You could substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas, but the protein content and texture will change.
If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a win on both flavor and nutrition, this high protein chicken broccoli rice is worth a shot. Save it for your next lunch or dinner, and see how easy it is to fill your plate with something wholesome and comforting.