Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli

If you’re searching for a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal, look no further than this easy Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli recipe. Combining lean ground chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh broccoli, this dish is designed for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and healthy on the table fast. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and balanced to keep you energized and happy without sacrificing taste or time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners hassle-free.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Combines lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and wholesome rice for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: Mild and savory ingredients that everyone in the family will enjoy.
• One-Pan Option: Minimal cleanup with a simple, streamlined cooking process.
• Flexible and Adaptable: Easy to customize with different spices, sauces, or veggies based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients will make this Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli truly shine. Each element brings its own unique texture, flavor, and color, creating a harmonious dish you’ll crave again and again.

• Ground Chicken: The lean protein base that keeps this dish healthy and satisfying.
• White or Brown Rice: Provides a comforting, fluffy bed that soaks up all those fantastic flavors.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds a vibrant, crunchy contrast plus lots of vitamins and fiber.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that build the foundation of deep, savory flavor.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: For a touch of umami and savory depth without overwhelming saltiness.
• Olive Oil or Sesame Oil: Adds richness and helps carry the flavors throughout the dish.
• Chicken Broth or Water: For cooking the rice and adding cozy moisture.
• Optional Seasonings: Such as black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh ginger to taste.

Variations for Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli

This recipe is a fantastic starting point that you can tailor easily to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences. Whether you want to spice it up, add more veggies, or swap ingredients, the possibilities are endless!

• Protein Swaps: Substitute ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a different texture or flavor.
• Veggie Mix-Ups: Add bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra crunch and color.
• Spice It Up: Toss in chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh jalapeños to turn up the heat.
• Sauce Variations: Use teriyaki, hoisin, or a splash of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• Grain Alternatives: Try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or farro for a gluten-free or lower-carb option.

How to Make Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and cutting broccoli into bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and easy mixing later on.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Simmer your rice in chicken broth or water according to package instructions until tender but still fluffy. This adds a layer of savory flavor and perfect texture.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the dish.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up, until fully browned and cooked through with no pink remaining.

Step 5: Add Broccoli and Sauce

Stir in the broccoli florets and soy sauce, covering the pan to steam the broccoli gently until tender crisp and vibrant green.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked and the chicken and broccoli mixture is ready, fold the rice into the skillet, mixing everything together thoroughly before serving hot.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Keeps the dish bright and crunchy, avoiding sogginess.
• Don’t Overcook Rice: Slightly undercooked rice holds up better when mixed with saucy ingredients.
• Brown the Chicken Well: Adds caramelized flavor that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal.
• Add Sauce Gradually: Control the saltiness by pouring soy sauce bit by bit and tasting as you go.
• Cover to Steam Broccoli: Trap steam to cook broccoli perfectly without losing texture or nutrients.

How to Serve Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo to take this dish from simple to spectacular with each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad or miso soup for a balanced meal with contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli in warm lettuce wraps for a fun handheld option or packed into bento boxes for meal prep lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring flavors stay fresh and textures remain appealing.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture and avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just add it a few minutes earlier during cooking to ensure it heats evenly and retains some texture.

Is ground chicken healthier than ground beef?

Ground chicken usually has less fat and calories than ground beef, making it a leaner option for heart-healthy and weight-conscious diets.

Can I cook this recipe in one pan?

Absolutely! You can brown the chicken, cook the aromatics, and steam the broccoli all in one large skillet, then stir in cooked rice for easy cleanup.

What type of rice works best here?

Both white and brown rice are great; brown rice adds nuttiness and fiber, while white rice cooks faster and is softer in texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, swap ground chicken for crumbled tofu or tempeh, use vegetable broth, and replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Chicken and Rice with Broccoli recipe offers a comforting, wholesome meal that is surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s perfect for when you want to whip up something healthy without fuss or complexity. Next time you’re pressed for time but craving a nutritious dinner, give this recipe a try—you’ll love how it nourishes your body and pleases your taste buds all at once.

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