Few dishes evoke the feeling of comfort and warmth like a well-made casserole. The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the epitome of cozy, homemade goodness—packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into how to make this dish, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering the perfect topping.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a solution for busy weeknights, a comfort for chilly evenings, and a meal that brings everyone to the table. You’ll love it because:

• It’s one-pot friendly—fewer dishes, less stress.
• It’s customizable to fit your family’s preferences.
• It’s loaded with nutritious ingredients like lean chicken and fresh broccoli.
• It’s cheesy, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite.

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Below is everything you’ll need to create this hearty dish.

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ¼ 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 (divided)

Optional Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Casserole Topping

• 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook the Chicken

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

3. Cook the Rice and Broccoli

• Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the same pot.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 6 minutes.
• Add the broccoli florets, replace the lid, and cook for another 9 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
• Turn off the heat and let the rice stand for 10 minutes without stirring.

4. Mix the Casserole Base

• Stir the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the pot of rice and broccoli.

5. Assemble the Casserole

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and pour the mixture into it.
• Top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

6. Add the Topping

• Combine the melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers in a small bowl.
• Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the topping evenly, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Rice: Use white long-grain rice for even cooking. Avoid instant rice as it may overcook or become mushy.
• Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and reduces prep time.
• Crispier Topping: For extra crunch, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes after adding the topping.
• Add Extra Veggies: Diced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added for more nutrition and color.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate for one serving of the casserole (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	780mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid according to the package instructions for brown rice.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Add the topping and bake when ready to serve.

4. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw the frozen broccoli and pat it dry before adding it to the casserole.

5. What other cheeses can I use?

Try using mozzarella, Swiss, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming dry?

Ensure the rice is fully cooked and there’s enough liquid in the mixture before baking. Covering the dish while baking helps retain moisture.

Conclusion: Bring Comfort to Your Table

The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delicious, hearty dish that combines all your favorite flavors in one comforting bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an easy make-ahead meal, this casserole delivers on taste, texture, and convenience.

Ready to make it? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

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