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Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Laura

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, creamy rice, broccoli, and golden cheddar cheese in one family-friendly baked dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 560
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 3 cups broccoli florets cut into small pieces
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more for chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded and divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • 9 by 13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes, then transfer it to a plate.
  3. Melt the butter in the skillet. Cook the onion until soft, then add garlic, flour, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Add the rinsed rice, broccoli, chicken, and sauce to the baking dish. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, top with cheddar cheese, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes more.
  7. Rest the casserole for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Keep the foil tightly sealed so the rice cooks properly.
  • Rest the casserole before serving so the sauce can thicken.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melted topping.