This One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Dinner is a warm hug in a bowl! Juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and creamy cheese come together easily in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
I love how everything cooks together, creating a tasty and comforting meal. Perfect for busy nights! Just stir it up, let it cook, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well. If you’re vegetarian, consider using chickpeas or tofu, which can be cooked in the same way for a similar texture.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add great texture and nutrition. If they’re not available, yellow squash can be a good alternative. Just make sure to adjust cooking time as needed.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try brown rice, but be aware that it will require a little more liquid and longer cooking time. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are also excellent substitutes.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a favorite for its meltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without lactose.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but following these steps will help. Start by seasoning it well before cooking, which enhances flavor. When you brown the chicken, you’re developing a nice crust that locks in juices.
- Cook the chicken until golden on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; this helps achieve that perfect brown.
- Return the chicken to the pot when you add the rice, allowing it to cook fully alongside.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer – 165°F (75°C) is the safe zone!
One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 10-15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. In total, expect to spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Cooking the Rice:
Now it’s time to stir in the uncooked rice. Let the rice coat in the oil for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly, which enhances the flavor. After that, add the diced zucchini and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together until combined.
4. Simmering Everything Together:
Return the browned chicken to the pot and give it a quick stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Adding the Cheese:
Once the cooking time is up, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and creamy, creating that delicious cheesy goodness.
6. Final Touches and Serving:
Finally, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful one pot meal!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. You’ll need to increase the broth by about 1/2 cup and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. Just be sure to check for doneness!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cheddar and Parmesan cheese with vegan cheese alternatives that melt well, or try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also enhance the creaminess with coconut milk if you like!
What Should I Do if I Have Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help loosen the texture, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and add them to the pot along with the zucchini for a more colorful and nutritious meal!
