Description
A quick and comforting weeknight dinner featuring tender instant rice, shredded rotisserie chicken, and fresh broccoli in a creamy cheddar sauce, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 ½ cups instant white rice
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and chop broccoli into florets; shred the chicken.
- Cook instant rice according to package directions (usually 1 cup rice to 1 cup boiling water for 5 minutes). Fluff with a fork and drain excess water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light blonde and nutty.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking vigorously until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Stir in minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and optional breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for a golden top, watching closely to prevent burning.
Notes
Use fresh broccoli and shred your own cheese for the best texture and melt. Do not overcook the broccoli as it will continue to cook in the oven. If using long-grain rice, pre-boil it first or increase baking time. This recipe does not freeze well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli rice, quick dinner, 30 minute meals, comfort food, rotisserie chicken, cheesy casserole, weeknight dinner