A creamy and cheesy casserole combining chicken, broccoli, and rice, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
Cook the broccoli and rice according to their package instructions.
Drain the broccoli well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
In a greased 9 x 13 baking dish, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, and rice.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the broccoli florets.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.
Cooking the flour removes the raw taste.
Gradually add the half-and-half, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
Warm the half-and-half slightly to prevent lumps.
Stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add the cheese in small batches for a smoother sauce.
Season the sauce with salt and paprika.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Pour the sauce over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture, stirring to combine.
Ensure the sauce coats all ingredients evenly.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Covering prevents the top from drying out.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top.
For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Cooling allows the casserole to set for easier serving.