1cupcheddar cheese, freshly shredded (I used sharp)
Mixed Cheese Topping
2½cupsFreshly shredded mixed cheese (I use ½ mozzarella and ½ sharp cheddar)
Instructions
Place the cooked, chopped broccoli into a large bowl. Set aside.
Cook The Chicken
Dice the chicken into small pieces.
Mix seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle generously over the chicken, tossing to coat.
Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet and add chicken.
Cook until the chicken is done, and place it into the large bowl with the broccoli. Set aside.
Make The Rice
Add water, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder to a pot and bring to a boil.
Stir in the rice.
Cover and reduce heat to a simmer.
Cook for 10-12 minutes or until most of the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 10-12 minutes.
Add the rice into the bowl with the broccoli and chicken and toss to combine. Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter and set aside.
Melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large deep skillet.
Add onions and celery and cook until tender.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add remaining butter (4 tablespoons).
Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook until bubbling and golden (about 2-3 minutes)
Slowly pour in chicken broth and stir in black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and celery salt.
Pour in the milk and simmer until the mixture begins to thicken (the texture will be like a thick chowder)
Stir in cheese.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings if needed (Very important. The sauce should taste like a savory soup)
Pour the sauce into the bowl with the broccoli, chicken, and rice and toss to coat.
Spread half the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with half the mixed cheese topping. Repeat. (You can use more or less cheese if desired)
Place the baking dish on a baking sheet in case it bubbles over a bit. Bake for 20 minutes, then broil on low until the cheese becomes slightly golden. (Keep an eye on it the entire time)