Skillet Kielbasa with Rice
Skillet Kielbasa with Rice is an easy, full meal made in one pan and ready in just 30 minutes. It’s made with rice, kielbasa, chicken broth, broccoli, and topped with cheddar cheese. Perfect for a busy weeknight.
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Love easy, one pan skillet dinners? Youve got to try this Creamy, Kielbasa, Gnocchi and Broccoli, Taco and Rice Skillet Dinner, Chicken Broccoli, Lasagna Skillet, and Orzo Chicken Piccata for the ultimate “get dinner on the table fast” meals!
This meal checks ALL the boxes
I love this one pan Skillet Kielbasa with Rice and Broccoli!
What you’ll need
- Olive oil
- 1 package Kielbasa, or your favorite sausage. Chicken sausage would be great.
- 1/2 onion
- Frozen or fresh broccoli florets
- Seasonings- salt, pepper, garlic
- Instant white rice, uncooked- this will cook in the pan. I love jasmine rice!
- Chicken broth- to cook the rice
- Shredded cheddar cheese- or your favorite cheese
How to make it
In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Place the kielbasa in the skillet and brown on both sides , about 4 minutes.
Remove to a plate.
Add in the onion and cook 3-4 minutes to start browning it. Next, add in the garlic, salt and pepper and cook 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape the brown bits off the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. (flavor!)
Add in the rice, mix, and let the broth come to a boil.
Reduce to a low simmer, cover the skillet with the lid, and cook 5 minutes.
Next, uncover the skillet, add in the broccoli right on top of the rice (don’t stir the rice!). Put the lid back on and cook another 5-7 minutes until rice and broccoli are tender.
At this point add the kielbasa back in and stir everything together to combine. Top with the cheddar cheese.
Turn off the heat. Cover the pan with a lid until the cheese is melted. Enjoy!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage, turkey kielbasa, chicken sausage, or even andouille sausage all work well in this recipe. Each variety adds its own flavor while keeping the meal quick and easy.
Can I use regular long-grain rice instead of instant rice?
This recipe is designed for instant white rice. If you’d like to use uncooked long-grain rice, you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add additional broth since regular rice takes much longer to cook.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh broccoli florets work just as well. Cut them into bite-sized pieces so they become tender during the final few minutes of cooking.
What other vegetables can I add?
This recipe is very versatile. Try adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, spinach, zucchini, or corn to use up whatever vegetables you have on hand.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives this skillet dinner lots of flavor, but Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are all delicious options.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the recipe as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm everything in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Allow the skillet meal to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I keep the rice from becoming mushy?
Be sure to use instant rice as directed and avoid overcooking it. Add the broccoli on top of the rice rather than stirring it in right away so the rice maintains its texture while the broccoli steams.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you choose a certified gluten-free kielbasa or smoked sausage and use gluten-free chicken broth. Always double-check ingredient labels, as they can vary by brand.
What can I serve with Skillet Kielbasa and Rice?
Since this is already a complete one-pan meal with protein, vegetables, and rice, it doesn’t need much! If you’d like to round out dinner, serve it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, dinner rolls, or fresh fruit.
You might also like
- Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
- One Dish Oven Steak Bites
- Porcupine Meatballs
- Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Beef Stroganoff
- Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken
- Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Video How To Make Skillet Kielbasa with Rice
Skillet Kielbasa with Rice
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces Kielbasa sliced (one package)- substitute sausage or chicken sausage
- 1/2 yellow onion diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup instant white rice uncooked, I love jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the kielbasa and brown on both sides , about 4 minutes.
- Remove kielbasa to a plate and set aside for later.
- Next, add in the onion to the pan and cook 3-4 minutes until it’s starting to brown. Add in the garlic, salt and pepper and cook 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape the brown bits off the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon.
- Then add in the rice, give it a mix, and let the broth come to a boil.
- Reduce to a low simmer, cover the pan with a lid and cook 5 minutes.
- Uncover, add in the broccoli on top of the rice (don’t stir the rice). Recover and cook another 5-7 minutes until rice and broccoli are tender.
- Add the kielbasa back in, stir everything together to combine. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Turn off the stove. Put the lid back on until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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