This casserole uses simple, real ingredients to create a truly memorable meal.
For the Casserole Base:
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (a rotisserie chicken is perfect here!)
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1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
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4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Legendary Homemade Cheese Sauce:
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4 tablespoons butter
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
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2 cups shredded cheese, divided (a blend of sharp cheddar and Colby Jack is ideal)
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½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a flavor boost!)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Golden Topping:
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½ cup additional shredded cheese
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¼ cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for crunch)
Crafting Your Casserole Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide
see continuation on next page
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