Gourmet Chicken Bake

Step 1 -Place an oven rack 6 inches from the heat source.

Step 2 -Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 3 -Whisk the flour and 1 cup of the milk in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 4 -Bring the remaining milk to a boil in a large broiler-safe skillet over medium-high heat, stirring often.

Step 5 -Reduce the heat to medium and gradually whisk in the flour mixture until smooth.

Step 6 -Return the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 7 -Boil the milk mixture, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8 -Stir the rice and the broccoli into the milk mixture until combined.

Step 9 -Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green, about 2 minutes.

Step 10 -Add the chicken, the Fontina cheese, the cremini mushrooms, the salt, and the pepper to the rice mixture and stir until the cheese is melted.

Step 11 -Transfer the skillet from the heat.

Step 12 -Stir together the panko, the thyme, and the oil in a small bowl.

Step 13 -Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken mixture.

Step 14 -Bake until the casserole is bubbly, about 15 minutes.

Step 15 -Switch the oven to broil and cook until the top is golden-brown, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 16 -Allow the bake to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 17 -Serve.