This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is the perfect comforting dinner! Loaded with juicy chicken, tender rice, and fresh broccoli, all smothered in creamy cheddar cheese. It’s easy to make, hearty, and all prepared in one pot. A great family meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into 1×1-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)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, cook chopped onion for 5 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add browned chicken back to the pan along with rinsed rice, chicken stock, and water. Stir well and bring to a boil. Lower heat to low and cover with a lid.
- Add Broccoli: After 10 minutes, stir in chopped broccoli, cover again, and cook until rice is fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
- Cheese and Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F. Once rice is cooked, stir in milk and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until combined. Top with remaining cheese and transfer the pan to the oven for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even cooking and safe oven use.
- Brown the chicken in batches for better flavor and texture.
- For frozen broccoli, let it thaw for 20-30 minutes before adding it to the pot.
- To make ahead: Refrigerate overnight (without the cheese topping), then add cheese and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Best served fresh but stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 472 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Protein: 33g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 92mg
- Sodium: 467mg
- Potassium: 651mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 717 IU
- Vitamin C: 43mg
- Calcium: 343mg
- Iron: 1mg
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