Cheesy Chicken Broccoli & Rice Casserole
As with most casseroles, this one is a very satisfying and comforting meal that requires minimum effort and takes a short time to put together.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice either white or brown, can be prepared a day ahead
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets blanched in salted boiling water for 3 minutes, drained and rinsed in cold water to retain vivid green colour
- 1 cup cooked chicken cubed or shredded
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1-2 tsp chilli flakes optional
Ingredients for Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk 500 ml
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- To prepare the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a pan, then add the flour and stir it in over low heat so that it cooks for a couple of minutes. Gradually add milk while whisking until you have a smooth sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper, then add the half cup of cheddar cheese and whisk it in until melted. The sauce will thicken with the addition of the cheese. Turn the heat off.In a large bowl, add the precooked rice, chicken and broccoli. Gently mix together. Add the cheese sauce and mix it in. Pour the entire mixture into a casserole dish and scatter the remaining half cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you want a bit of heat, you can sprinkle some chilli flakes on top.Bake in a preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.Enjoy! 🙂
Notes
The chicken used in this recipe can be either boiled, steamed, roasted or pan-seared.
