Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheddar

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Preparation

1. Season Chicken: Season chicken thighs with garlic pepper seasoning, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, and salt. Add olive oil and mix to coat evenly.
2. Cook Chicken: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side until done. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare Sauce: Add garlic to the same pan and sauté briefly. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release flavor. Stir in the cream of chicken with herb soup, then add heavy cream. Stir until combined.
4. Finish Sauce: Incorporate fresh grated cheddar and Boursin cheese. Add sour cream and season to taste with the same spices used on the chicken. Cook until thickened.
5. Blanch Broccoli: Add broccoli to salted boiling water, then transfer immediately to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain.
6. Chop: Chop the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli into desired size.

Assembly & Baking

1. Combine: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped broccoli, chopped chicken, and the cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
2. Layer: Place a layer of the mixture into a baking dish, top with cheddar cheese, then add the remaining mixture on top and smooth it out.
3. Top: Finish with an extra layer of cheddar cheese.
4. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.