Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Family Casserole

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook for 6-8 minutes until chicken is mostly cooked through and slightly golden on the edges. Remove from heat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli florets, cooked chicken and onions, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
6. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
8. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Serve warm.

Chef tips

• Use frozen broccoli florets if fresh is unavailable; just thaw and drain excess water before mixing in.
• If you prefer, swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup or use a homemade béchamel sauce for a fresher flavor.
• For a lower-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice but reduce the baking time slightly to keep texture.
• Shred your own cheese from blocks for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties which may contain anti-caking agents.