Chicken, Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Method

1. 1

   Cook the rice according to package directions and heat the oven to 190°C.

2. 2

   Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3 minutes until just bright green and barely tender.

3. 3

   Melt the butter in a large pot, whisk in the flour and cook 1 minute, then whisk in the stock and milk until smooth.

4. 4

   Simmer the sauce, whisking often, until it coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes, then stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper and half the cheddar.

5. 5

   Fold the cooked rice, shredded chicken and broccoli into the sauce, then pour into a buttered baking dish.

6. 6

   Top with the remaining cheddar and bake 20 minutes until bubbling at the edges and golden on top.

   💡 Everything inside is already cooked — this bake is just for the top to brown and the flavors to marry.