Name: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken or 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1¼ cups uncooked white long-grain rice; 2 cups fresh or thawed broccoli florets; 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup; ½ cup milk; ½ cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers; 2 tbsp butter; 2½ cups chicken broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ tsp dried thyme (optional); ½ tsp garlic powder (optional); 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

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This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it a go-to dish for busy families. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is sure to impress. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crunchy Ritz cracker topping create a perfect harmony of taste and comfort. Easy to make in one pot, this dish saves time and effort while delivering satisfaction for everyone at the table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: This casserole comes together quickly with minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in a single pot for easy cleanup—less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone loves.
Versatile Ingredients: Use rotisserie chicken or fresh chicken based on what you have on hand; you can customize it with your favorite seasonings too.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this dish, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will help streamline the process and keep your kitchen organized.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Baking dish
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking rice and mixing all ingredients in one place.
Baking dish: Necessary for baking the casserole until golden brown on top.
Mixing spoon: Helps combine ingredients evenly without damaging delicate items like broccoli.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient portions for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base

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

For the Rice Mixture

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

For the Creamy Sauce

10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
½ cup milk
½ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Optional Seasonings & Topping

½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp garlic powder
1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)
2 tbsp melted butter

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you finish preparing the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the chicken breasts and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook until they are browned on both sides but not fully cooked through—about 5 minutes per side.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to Pot

Pour in the chicken broth followed by uncooked rice.
Stir in fresh broccoli florets (or thawed frozen broccoli), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Add Topping

In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until well combined.
Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole along with remaining cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole hot from the oven!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serving Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can elevate your meal experience. This dish is not only filling but also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dinner.

Family Style

Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy family meal. Let everyone help themselves!

Individual Portions

Divide the casserole into ramekins for a fun and personal touch. This also makes it easier for portion control.

With Fresh Herbs

Garnish each serving with chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness that complements the creamy flavors.

Side Salad

Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity will balance the richness of the casserole.

Bread Rolls

Offer warm dinner rolls on the side. They are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or cheese.

Leftovers

Reheat leftovers in individual servings for a quick lunch. It’s just as delicious as the first day!

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Perfecting your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is easy with a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve a delicious result every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality chicken will enhance the flavor significantly compared to frozen or processed options.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to add more spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick, adjusting according to your taste preference.
Check Rice Doneness: Ensure that the rice is fully cooked by following package instructions and checking before you serve.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs nicely and adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
Steamed Green Beans: These add color and nutrition while being light enough not to overpower the main dish.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine and tangy dressing, complementing the rich flavors of your casserole.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and provide additional textures alongside your meal.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can cut through the creaminess of the casserole, offering a crunchy texture and bright flavors.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness to your table, balancing out savory dishes beautifully.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent choice, adding warmth and comfort to your meal experience.
Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes allow guests to customize their toppings, making them an interactive side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole even better.

Using uncooked rice: Always use uncooked long-grain rice. Pre-cooked rice will not absorb the flavors properly.
Overcooking the broccoli: Add fresh or thawed broccoli only in the last few minutes of cooking to keep it vibrant and crunchy.
Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish! Proper seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs enhances the overall flavor.
Skipping the topping: The buttery Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful crunch. Always include it for texture and taste.
Ignoring leftovers: This casserole is great for meal prep. Don’t let leftovers go to waste by not storing them properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy and cheesy dish that combines chicken, broccoli, and rice baked with a crunchy topping.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets! Just thaw and pat them dry before adding to the casserole.

How do I make it gluten-free?

To make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole gluten-free, substitute regular Ritz crackers with gluten-free options and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your casserole.

How long does it take to cook?

The total time for this recipe is about 60 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Its creamy texture combined with crunchy toppings makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding different veggies or cheeses based on your preference!

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Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, a family favorite that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese all baked to perfection. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures with minimal effort. The buttery Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling, making it irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare and full of customizable options, this dish can feature rotisserie chicken or your choice of seasonings, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Gather your loved ones around the table for a heartwarming meal that brings everyone together.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and cook the chicken until browned.
Add chicken broth and rice; stir in broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half the cheese.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter and remaining cheese.
Bake for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American