Creating the Best Chicken and Rice Casserole is easy with these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken and onion mixture with rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until fully combined.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
8. Uncover and Brown: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Cool Down: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

These simple steps will ensure that you create a mouthwatering casserole that everyone will enjoy.