Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Introduction

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This creamy and cheesy casserole combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice in a flavorful sauce topped with a crispy buttery cracker crust.

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a convenient one-dish meal that is easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a cozy and delicious home-cooked meal. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day!

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• Salt/Pepper (to taste)
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups white long grain rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (uncooked)
• 10.5 oz. Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (separated)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)
• 2 Tablespoons melted butter

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter and cook chicken until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate pot, heat chicken broth and olive oil. Add rice, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix together cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, thyme, and garlic powder.
5. Transfer mixture to a casserole dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25 minutes.

Add the Topping:

1. Melt the butter and crumble up the crackers. Combine to form the topping for the casserole.
2. Top the casserole with the crumbled cracker topping and bake uncovered for 10 additional minutes.
3. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes prior to serving.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, for a comforting and satisfying meal. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.

How to Store Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
• Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
• Customize the dish by using different types of cheese or adding hot sauce for a kick.

Variation

For a healthier version, use brown rice instead of white rice and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the casserole.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
3. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.