Ingredients
Method
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and a golden cheese topping.
2. Cook the Rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine uncooked rice and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until lightly browned (does not need to cook through). Remove from heat.
4. Mix the Casserole Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, half the shredded cheddar cheese, and cream of chicken soup (if using).
- Stir until well mixed.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the rice and broccoli mixture evenly across the dish.
- Arrange the seared chicken on top of the rice mixture.
6. Add Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the entire casserole.
7. Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and Garnish
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or your preferred toppings. Serve warm and enjoy!