Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole – Fustini's Oils & Vinegars

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons Fustini's Herbs de Provence olive oil, divided
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cut into 1" cubes
• 1 1/2 cups basmati or jasmine rice
• 1/2 cup dry small-cut pasta
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth (plus more if seems to dry out)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
• zest of 1/2 a lemon
• 3/4 cup whole milk or canned coconut milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese