Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a single pot, then crowns it with a buttery Ritz cracker topping. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal to impress guests, this casserole checks all the boxes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cream of chicken soup and cheddar cheese ensures every bite is rich and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep; it caters to various occasions effortlessly.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to substitute ingredients like chicken or cheese based on your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for busy nights; it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the rice and combining ingredients efficiently.
• Casserole dish: A sturdy baking dish that ensures even cooking while holding all the delicious layers of your casserole.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1¼ cups white long-grain rice, uncooked
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked (or 2 cups frozen, thawed and patted dry)
• 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Optional Seasonings:

• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Topping:

• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 tbsp melted butter

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside. (Skip this step if using rotisserie chicken.)

Step 3: Cook the Rice and Broccoli

To the same pot, add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 6 minutes. Add broccoli to the pot; cover again and cook for another 9 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. If necessary, simmer an additional 5 minutes with lid on. Turn off heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

Add cooked chicken (or rotisserie chicken), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Transfer rice mixture to dish; spread evenly. Top with remaining cheddar cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Topping

While baking, melt butter and mix with crushed Ritz crackers. After baking for 15 minutes, remove foil; sprinkle cracker mixture over top. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Let casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a fresh green salad or garlic bread!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing add a contrasting texture that pairs well with the cheesy casserole.

Add Garlic Bread

• Traditional Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy bite that balances the creaminess of the casserole.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate your bread game with melted cheese on top for an extra cheesy treat alongside your casserole.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini in olive oil and roast them for added flavor and color.
• Garlic Parmesan Broccoli: Enhance the broccoli flavor by roasting it with garlic and parmesan cheese to tie in with the casserole.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to add more spices or herbs to match your taste—experiment with additional Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
• Bold Cheese Choices: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting; it creates a creamier texture than pre-shredded varieties.
• Bold Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times; if using rotisserie chicken, reduce initial cooking time for the chicken portion.
• Bold Prep Steps: Make sure to let the casserole cool slightly before serving; this helps set it and makes serving easier.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

When enjoying Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add crunch and a fresh taste that balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast to savory flavors; serve it buttered for extra indulgence.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that pairs well with creamy dishes like this casserole.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes are filling and allow guests to customize their toppings according to their preferences.
5. Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad packed with vegetables provides protein and fiber while keeping things light and healthy.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after a rich meal, adding sweetness and variety to your dinner spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish.

• Using Overcooked Broccoli: If you overcook the broccoli before adding it to the casserole, it can become mushy. Add fresh or lightly steamed broccoli right before baking for better texture.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Skipping seasonings can lead to a bland casserole. Be generous with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best results, shred cheese from a block right before using.
• Skipping the Rest Period: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking lets flavors meld and helps with serving. Don’t skip this step; let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking times may vary based on your oven and ingredients. Keep an eye on your casserole while baking to ensure perfect doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to cool the casserole completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Freeze unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual servings in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: For single portions, place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute ingredients in Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Yes! You can use different vegetables like cauliflower or carrots, swap chicken for turkey, or use brown rice instead of white rice.

How do I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole healthier?

Opt for low-fat sour cream and cheese, use brown rice for added fiber, or include more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw and pat dry the frozen broccoli before adding it to the casserole mixture.

How long does Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole last in the fridge?

The casserole can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when ready.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep, it’s sure to please everyone at your table!

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