Description
A comforting one-dish casserole featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese topping, perfect for family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, and oregano for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, sautéed onion mixture, chicken broth, and milk. Stir in softened cream cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Spread the rice mixture in the baking dish, nestle chicken throughout, and distribute broccoli florets on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil, add remaining cheddar cheese, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg