Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Chop the onion and carrots

Cut the chicken breasts into cubes

Roughly chop the broccoli florets

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat

When the oil shimmers, add the onion and carrot and cook until fragrant

Stir in the chicken and season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is seared

Add the butter, rice, orzo, and thyme, and cook until golden and toasted

Add the broth and bring to a boil over high heat

Add the broccoli, bay leaves, garlic powder, cayenne, and a large pinch each of salt and pepper

Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to low, then cook covered until the rice is mostly cooked

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the lemon zest, milk, and 1/2 cup of cheese

If needed, transfer the rice to an oven-safe casserole dish

Scatter the remaining cheese over top the casserole

Transfer to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and just beginning to brown

Serve warm with additional thyme and fresh basil