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Broccoli Rice Casserole

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A comforting, one-pot Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole that combines the creamy flavors of broccoli cheddar soup with a cozy rice bake. Made with chicken, rice, orzo, fresh broccoli, herbs, and melty cheddar cheese—this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One Pot, Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 yellow onion, chopped

3 carrots, chopped

1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cubed

2 tablespoons salted butter

1 1/2 cups basmati or jasmine rice

1/2 cup dry orzo pasta (gluten-free if needed)

2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus more for topping

3 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth

3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped

2 bay leaves

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Zest of 1/2 a lemon

1/2 cup whole milk or canned coconut milk

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrots and sauté until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly seared, 2–3 minutes.
  4. Stir in butter, rice, orzo, and thyme. Cook for 2–3 minutes until rice is golden and toasted.
  5. Add chicken broth, broccoli, bay leaves, garlic powder, cayenne, and more salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, until rice is mostly cooked.
  6. Remove bay leaves. Stir in lemon zest, milk, and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.
  7. Transfer to a casserole dish if desired. Top with remaining cheese.
  8. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and slightly browned.
  9. Garnish with fresh thyme and basil before serving.

Notes

  • To make ahead: Assemble through step 6, refrigerate up to 2 days, then bake as directed.
  • To freeze: Assemble through step 6, freeze up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
  • Omit chicken for a vegetarian version.
  • Use gluten-free orzo if needed.
  • For a spicier kick, increase cayenne or add chili flakes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/broccoli-rice-casserole/