1cupquick cooking brown rice*do not use Instant rice as it is not the same as quick cooking rice. See notes
2cupsskim milk
1cupvegetable broth
1teaspoonkosher salt
2.5cupsbroccoli floretscut into bite-sized pieces
2cupschickpeasrinsed and drained
1cupgrated cheese
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saute pan over medium heat. Add the onion and saute 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and saute 30 seconds more.
Add the rice to the pan and toast for 1-2 minutes. Add the milk, broth and salt and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover and cook for 10 minutes or until the rice has about 5-8 minutes left of cooking time.
Remove the lid and stir in the broccoli and chickpeas. Cover and continue to cook for about 5 minutes more.
When the rice is done, remove from heat and stir in half of the cheese and add more salt if necessary. Top the casserole with the remaining cheese and let stand until melted. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
White rice may be substituted for the quick cooking brown rice. My rule of thumb is adding 1/2 cup more liquid than the cooking instructions on the rice package in order to account for the addition of the broccoli and chickpeas. Regular brown rice may be used, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid according to the package instructions of the rice you use.
For crisp-tender broccoli, cook 3-5 minutes. For softer broccoli, cook for about 8 minutes. You can also microwave it separately and toss it in at the end!