Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado
Looking for a quick and easy meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious? Look no further than this Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado! This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp broccoli, and creamy avocado for a flavor and texture explosion. Best of all, it can be on the table in under an hour, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
What sets this recipe apart is the seamless blend of familiar ingredients with unexpected flavors. The addition of avocado not only boosts the nutritional value but also lends a luxurious creaminess that perfectly complements the other elements. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado is sure to become a new household favorite.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado is a true showstopper in the world of easy, weeknight meals. The combination of protein-packed chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and nutrient-dense broccoli and avocado makes it a well-balanced and satisfying dish. The contrasting textures – tender chicken, fluffy rice, crunchy broccoli, and creamy avocado – create an engaging mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs, from reduced-fat to lower-carb options. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal, with the ability to refrigerate or freeze the components for quick reheating on busy days. With its winning combination of flavor, nutrition, and convenience, this Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado ❓
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 head broccoli, florets cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
The beauty of this Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and nutrient-dense broccoli and avocado creates the Mexican-inspired flavor profile that has made one-pan recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
• Step 3: After 15 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the skillet, re-cover, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broccoli is crisp-tender.
• Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the diced avocado. Fluff the rice and chicken mixture with a fork, ensuring the avocado is evenly distributed.
• Step 5: Serve the Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado warm, garnished with additional avocado slices or chopped cilantro, if desired.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes
Compared to traditional Mexican rice and chicken dishes which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado saves you 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sodium: 505mg
These Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado provide approximately 75% of your daily protein requirements and 40% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the white rice with riced cauliflower or quinoa.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Omit the Greek yogurt and use mashed avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Added protein: Stir in 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers or onions to the dish.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Complement with a light, refreshing soup, such as a Tomato or Avocado Soup.
• For a Mexican-inspired meal, serve alongside refried beans, guacamole, and warm tortillas.
• Create a burrito bowl platter with the Chicken and Rice, plus toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooking the rice: Make sure to simmer the rice for the full 15-20 minutes, or until it’s tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
• Not letting the avocado fully incorporate: Be sure to stir the diced avocado into the hot rice and chicken mixture, allowing it to melt and blend seamlessly.
• Cutting the broccoli too small: Cut the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces, but not so small that they overcook and become mushy.
• Forgetting to season: Don’t forget to season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. The right seasoning can make all the difference in the final flavor.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the broccoli, then allow it to cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and continue with the recipe, adding the broccoli and avocado.
• Freezing baked: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed to your desired temperature.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare this Chicken and Rice dish in advance?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the entire dish, including the broccoli and avocado, up to 4 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven.
Can I substitute a different protein for the chicken?
Yes, you can easily swap out the chicken for another protein source. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs would work well, as would turkey breast or even cubed tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Keep in mind that cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly depending on the protein you choose.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs. For a reduced-fat version, use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt instead of avocado. To make it lower in carbs, replace the white rice with riced cauliflower or quinoa. And for a dairy-free adaptation, simply omit the Greek yogurt and use mashed avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
What should I do if the rice doesn’t cook through?
If the rice isn’t tender after the initial 15-20 minutes of simmering, simply add a splash of additional broth or water, cover, and continue cooking in 5-minute intervals until the rice is fully cooked. Avoid the temptation to remove the lid too frequently, as this can prevent the rice from properly absorbing the liquid.
Can I add any additional ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! This Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado is a great base recipe that can be customized to your liking. Consider adding sautéed bell peppers or onions, roasted garlic, or even a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder for a Southwestern twist. You can also stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein boost.
Conclusion
These Chicken and Rice with Broccoli and Avocado represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re serving them as a satisfying weeknight dinner or preparing them for meal-prepping, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant colors, contrasting textures, and well-rounded nutritional profile. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Chicken and Rice dishes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why not give this delicious and nutritious recipe a try? Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you!
