Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer slightly, a sign that it's ready for the chicken. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear on the chicken.
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook the chicken pieces until they’re lightly browned and cooked through, which usually takes about six minutes. You'll want to see a golden color for that perfect flavor.
Next, add the onion to the skillet. Let it sauté alongside the chicken until it becomes tender and translucent. This step enhances the flavor base of your skillet dish.
Add the garlic, uncooked rice, broccoli, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the heat to release the flavors.
Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help cook the rice and infuse the dish with even more flavor. You'll love how the aroma fills your kitchen!
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about seventeen minutes. During this time, the rice should absorb the liquid and become tender.
After the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, stir in the sour cream and half a cup of the cheese. Mix until everything is creamy and well-combined.
Now, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover the skillet again. Let the cheese melt over low heat for about two minutes. This is the moment when your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet starts to resemble pure comfort food.
Finally, enjoy your creation! Serve it warm and watch as your family digs in with delight.
