Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 3 cups broccoli florets, blanched
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few more minutes until it’s smooth and well combined.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and cooked white rice. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the mixture and gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and grated parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this breadcrumb-cheese mixture evenly over the casserole.
10. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
11. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
12. Serve the creamy chicken broccoli casserole as a hearty and comforting main dish. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Broccoli Casserole!