Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season with kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and black pepper.
Steam 2 cups of broccoli florets until slightly tender.
Cook and rinse 1.5 cups of basmati rice, ensuring it's fluffy and not overly moist.
Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine 1.5 cups of chicken stock, 0.75 cup of heavy cream, minced garlic, and diced onions. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the ingredients:
Start with cooked rice at the bottom.
Add the seasoned, raw chicken pieces evenly over the rice.
Spread the steamed broccoli florets on top.
Pour the prepared sauce over the entire dish, ensuring all layers are well-coated.
Add the Cheese
Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole to create a melty, golden topping.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.