Description
Classic comfort meets nutritious delight in this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole. Creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli combine for a hearty meal that satisfies from first bite to last, promising warmth and flavor in each comforting forkful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breasts, cut into 1×1-inch cubes
- 1½ cups (270 grams) white long grain rice, rinsed
- 3 cups (450 grams) broccoli florets, roughly chopped
- 2 cups (226 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
Liquid Ingredients:
- 2 cups (473 milliliters) water
- 2 cups (473 milliliters) chicken stock
- ½ cup (118 milliliters) milk
- Olive oil for cooking
Aromatic Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly season chicken cubes with salt and black pepper to elevate the overall taste profile.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, carefully searing chicken pieces until golden brown on all surfaces, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer browned chicken to a separate plate, reserving the flavorful pan drippings.
- In the identical skillet, gently sauté diced onions until they become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, releasing its aromatic qualities without burning.
- Reintroduce the browned chicken to the skillet, combining with uncooked rice, chicken stock, and water, ensuring thorough mixing.
- Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, covering the skillet tightly.
- Simmer the contents for 10-12 minutes, allowing rice to partially cook and absorb liquid.
- Carefully fold chopped broccoli florets into the partially cooked mixture, replacing the lid and continuing to cook.
- Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 15-18 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) during the final cooking stages.
- Gently stir in whole milk and of shredded cheddar cheese, thoroughly incorporating throughout the mixture.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese across the top of the casserole.
- Transfer the skillet or transfer contents to a baking dish and place in preheated oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a light golden crust.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-4 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with optional fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by seasoning chicken cubes with salt and pepper before browning in olive oil for a delicious golden exterior.
- Create a rich base by sautéing onions until soft, then adding garlic for an aromatic foundation that builds depth in the casserole.
- Transform your pan into a one-pot wonder by returning browned chicken and combining rice, stock, and water for a hearty mixture.
- Integrate broccoli during the final cooking stage, ensuring tender vegetables and perfectly cooked rice blend seamlessly together.
- Elevate the dish with a generous cheese topping, melting cheddar until golden and bubbly for an irresistible creamy finish.
- Serve immediately for the ultimate comfort food experience, enjoying the warm, cheesy goodness straight from the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg