Creamy Garlic Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice in a luscious garlic cream sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. The dish balances traditional comfort with a creative twist, making it a family favorite. It's a wholesome, one-pan meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced chicken and season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken and onion mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
7. While the rice cooks, steam the broccoli florets until bright green and just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
8. Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, steamed broccoli, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
9. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and the breadcrumbs.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
11. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.