Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
This comforting one-pot wonder brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a rich, golden cheese sauce. Designed for busy weeknights, it delivers a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. With minimal cleanup and hearty, crowd-pleasing flavors, this recipe is a reliable go-to for parents needing a quick, nutritious solution that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop to Oven
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
1 pound chicken breasts, cubed
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups white long grain rice
2 cups chicken stock
2 cups water
3 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup milk
2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper.
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Brown chicken for 5 to 7 minutes, then set aside.
Sauté the onion until soft, then add garlic for 30 seconds.
Return chicken to the pan and stir in rinsed rice, chicken stock, and water.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in broccoli, cover, and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Stir milk and 1 cup of cheddar into the mixture.
Top with remaining cheese and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Notes
Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning chicken to get a good sear. If you prefer softer broccoli, add it to the rice mixture a few minutes earlier during the stove-top phase. Use high-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor.