Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal that the whole family will love. Tender chicken, broccoli, and rice are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce until bubbly and golden on top.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 1×1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups white long grain rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups water
- 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into cubes: Season with salt and pepper.
- Brown the chicken: In a preheated pan, brown the chicken on all sides for 5-7 minutes. Do not cook through, just brown for flavor.
- Cook the aromatics: Cook onion until translucent, then add garlic.
- Add remaining ingredients: Return chicken to the pot along with rice, chicken stock, and water. Cook until rice is almost done.
- Add broccoli and cheese: Stir in broccoli, milk, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Top with remaining cheese and bake at 425°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.
- Brown the meat in batches for better color.
- Avoid moving chicken in the pan until ready to flip for optimal browning.
- Defrost frozen broccoli before adding to the dish.
- You can prepare the casserole ahead, refrigerate, and bake with cheese before serving.
- Long grain white rice like Basmati is recommended for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg