Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, broccoli, and gooey melted cheddar cheese. It's creamy, comforting, and comes together in just one pot—perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ cups white long-grain rice rinsed
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups water
- 3 cups broccoli florets roughly chopped
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and when hot, brown the chicken on all sides for 5–7 minutes. (The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage, just browned for flavor.)
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
- In the same pan, add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds to release its aroma.
Simmer the Rice:
- Return the browned chicken to the pot.
- Add the rinsed rice, chicken stock, and water. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and cook for 10 minutes.
Add Broccoli:
- Stir in the chopped broccoli, cover, and continue cooking until the rice is fully tender, stirring occasionally.
Incorporate Cheese:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Once the rice is cooked, add the milk and stir.
- Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, folding it into the casserole.
Bake to Perfection:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and transfer the pan to the oven.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Serve:
- Enjoy this warm, cheesy casserole as a comforting dinner for the whole family!