Description
This cheesy rice with peppers dish is the perfect one-skillet comfort food loved by the whole family, featuring a blend of protein, veggies, and a melty cheese finish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs (boneless) OR 1 lb ground beef OR 14–16 oz firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
- 1–2 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped)
- 1 large carrot (thinly sliced)
- 1–2 bell peppers (sliced)
- 3 cups cooked rice or 8–10 oz cooked pasta
- 2–3 tbsp soy sauce OR 1 cup marinara OR 1–2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2–1 cup shredded cheddar
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- Optional aromatics: 1 small onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), lime wedges, fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley)
Instructions
- Prep: Chop veggies, mince garlic/onion if using, and measure sauces. Have cooked rice or pasta ready and shredded cheese in a small bowl. Pat protein dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook protein: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. For chicken: sear 5–7 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C); slice or cube. For ground beef: cook, breaking up, until no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes); drain excess fat. For tofu: add cubes and sear without moving for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Sauté aromatics and veggies: If you used a separate pan for protein, wipe skillet and add 1 tbsp oil if needed. Sauté onion and garlic 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add carrots and broccoli first (they take longer) and stir-fry 3–4 minutes, then add bell peppers and cook until vegetables are tender-crisp (2–3 more minutes).
- Add rice/pasta and protein: Stir in cooked rice or pasta and the cooked protein. Break up any clumps of rice and toss so everything is distributed.
- Incorporate sauce: Pour your chosen sauce over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients and warm through, 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt/pepper.
- Cheese finish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar evenly across the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover 1–2 minutes until cheese melts, or transfer briefly to a hot oven (350°F/175°C) just until bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with lime wedges or fresh herbs if desired and serve family-style.
Notes
Use day-old rice for the best texture; keep textures distinct by cooking denser vegetables first.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American