Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice in a single dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole is not only easy to make but also offers a comforting taste that everyone will love. With its buttery Ritz cracker topping, it’s a standout dish for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients:
• Optional Seasonings:
• Topping:
• For Garnish:
• How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Cook the Rice and Broccoli
• Step 4: Combine the Casserole Ingredients
• Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 6: Add the Topping
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add Some Bread
• Balance with Vegetables
• How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen broccoli in Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• How can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole gluten-free?
• Can I add other vegetables to my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• How do I store leftovers from Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• What is the best way to reheat Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a family favorite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use rotisserie chicken or fresh chicken, and swap out broccoli for your favorite veggies.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for busy weeknights or gatherings.
• Delicious Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Allows for cooking all the ingredients together, ensuring flavors meld perfectly.
• Casserole dish: Ideal for baking your casserole evenly and serving directly from the oven.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients without making a mess.

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 and set aside. (Skip this step if using rotisserie chicken.)

Step 3: Cook the Rice and Broccoli

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

Step 4: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

Add the 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 the rice mixture to the dish and 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 it with crushed Ritz crackers. After baking for 15 minutes, remove foil, sprinkle cracker mixture over top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serving Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is simple and can be tailored to your family’s preferences. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can enhance the dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds crunch.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy Caesar dressing contrasts nicely with the casserole’s flavors.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a delicious side that everyone loves.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the casserole.

Balance with Vegetables

• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans offer a fresh taste and vibrant color.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor to your meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Achieving the perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole requires attention to detail during preparation. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Rice: Ensure the rice is tender but not mushy for the ideal texture.
• Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Layer the Toppings Well: Evenly distribute toppings for a consistent crunch across every bite.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing it to sit helps flavors meld and makes serving easier.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Pairing sides with your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the casserole well.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the casserole.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings an earthy flavor and bright color to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness that harmonizes nicely with savory dishes.
5. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that’s always popular at dinner tables.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet finish and contrasts well with the rich casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter common pitfalls when preparing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Not seasoning the chicken – Failing to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a more flavorful dish.
• Using pre-shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best results, shred your own cheese from a block.
• Overcooking the broccoli – If you overcook the broccoli, it can become mushy and lose its vibrant color. Add it during the last stages of cooking to maintain its texture.
• Skipping the resting time – Letting the casserole sit before serving allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier serving. Don’t skip this crucial step!
• Forgetting to adjust cooking times for make-ahead meals – If you prepare the casserole in advance or from frozen, remember to increase cooking times accordingly for even baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool before sealing the container.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Freeze unbaked casserole in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli in Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it and pat dry before adding it to ensure excess moisture doesn’t affect the dish.

How can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.

Can I add other vegetables to my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftovers from Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze portions for later enjoyment!

What is the best way to reheat Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

For best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave if you’re short on time.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile! It’s perfect for family dinners and can be customized with various ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give it a try — you’ll love how easy and comforting this dish is!