Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake with tender chicken, fluffy rice, broccoli, and melty cheese—a creamy, hearty dish without cream of soup.
Preheat oven to 400°F and lightly grease an 8x11 casserole dish. Sear chicken in 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes. Set aside.
Cook onion until browned. Whisk in flour for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking.
Add spices, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thick, then stir in 1½ cups cheddar until melted.
In a large bowl or casserole dish, mix rice, broccoli, chicken, and sauce.
Top with remaining ½ cup cheese. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
Serve warm with melty cheese on top.