Chicken and Broccoli Casserole with Rice and Cheese

 



INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Preheat and Prepare:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, ensuring even coverage.

  2. Cook the Rice and Blanch the Broccoli:

    • Cook the rice according to package instructions until tender and fluffy. Set aside.
    • Meanwhile, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

  3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
    • Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
    • Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Set the cheese sauce aside.

  4. Assemble the Casserole:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, blanched broccoli florets, and the prepared cheese sauce. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

  5. Layer and Top:

    • Transfer the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
    • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
    • If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese for added crunch and texture.

  6. Bake to Golden Perfection:

    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.

  7. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Once baked to golden perfection, remove the Chicken and Broccoli Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
    • Slice into generous portions and serve warm, savoring the creamy goodness of chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese in every bite.