Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown color. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage—it will continue to cook with the rice. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The onions and garlic create a savory base for the dish.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasonings

Stir in the uncooked rice, onion powder, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the rice with the oil and flavors from the pan. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice and ensures it absorbs the broth more effectively.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Slowly pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine it with the rice and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes (or 20-25 minutes if using brown rice), stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Add the Broccoli

Once the rice has absorbed most of the broth and is nearly tender, stir in the broccoli florets. If using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the skillet during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking so it steams and softens. For frozen broccoli, you can add it directly to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes. If the skillet looks dry, add a splash of broth or water to help steam the broccoli.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese (Optional)

If you want a cheesy finish, stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese during the final minute of cooking. The cheese will melt into the dish, adding a creamy, comforting texture that complements the chicken and broccoli.

Step 7: Serve

Once the rice is tender and the broccoli is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy finish that cuts through the richness of the dish.