Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Creamy chicken broccoli casserole is filled with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, cooked rice, and a perfectly seasoned homemade cream sauce. It is the ultimate meal to finish off a busy day, and you’re going to want to try this tonight!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 - 1 1/2 pounds chicken, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped onions
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets, about 3-4 cups worth
• 2 cups shredded cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in an oven safe, heavy bottomed pan or dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add in cubed, raw chicken and season it with salt and pepper. Cook chicken for 5 minutes until exterior gets some browning.
3. Add in the onions and garlic and sauté alongside the chicken until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Once the rice is toasted, add flour and sauté for a minute.
5. Pour the milk in slowly while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Pour in broth, thyme, and oregano. Bring this to a boil and then turn the heat down to medium-low. Cover and cook until the rice is almost cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Add the broccoli and gently stir it around. Cover again and cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in 1 cup cheese. Top with the remaining cheese and place under broiler for a few minutes to achieve additional browning (optional, but recommended).