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Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole

A comforting casserole featuring chicken, broccoli, and cheddar cheese, perfect for busy nights and families.

  • Total Time: 60
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Chicken breasts, boneless
  • 2 Bay leaves
  • 3 cups Broccoli florets
  • 3 Carrots, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 Lemon, zest of
  • 2 tbsp Thyme, fresh leaves
  • 1 Yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 1/2 cups Chicken broth, low sodium
  • 1/2 cup Whole milk or canned coconut milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Basmati or jasmine rice
  • 1/2 cup Orzo pasta, dry
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil, extra virgin
  • 2 tbsp Butter, salted
  • 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese, sharp, shredded

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and broccoli florets. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet along with the garlic powder, bay leaves, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
  4. Stir in the rice, orzo, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

  • Author: mehdilmh
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 45
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Nut-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, easy recipe