Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy and cheesy delight that brings the whole family together for a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead dish, it showcases tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Your taste buds will thank you for this one-pot wonder!

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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 Salad
• Add Bread
• Include Vegetables
• How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• Can I use frozen broccoli?
• How do I customize this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• Can I make this ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This casserole is made in just one pot, simplifying cleanup and cooking.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of chicken, cheese, and broccoli creates a hearty dish everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and crispy topping make it appealing to children and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance to save time on busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Cooking spray
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the rice and combining all the ingredients without transferring to multiple pans.
• Casserole dish: Provides ample space for baking and serving your delicious casserole.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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; see Notes)
• 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.
* 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

To the same pot, add:
* Chicken broth
* Olive oil
* Rice

Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer.
1. Cover and cook for 6 minutes.
2. Add broccoli to the pot.
3. Cover again; cook for another 9 minutes until rice is tender.
4. If rice isn’t fully cooked, replace lid and simmer an additional 5 minutes.

Turn off heat; let sit covered for 10 minutes to release any stuck rice.

Step 4: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

Add cooked chicken (or rotisserie chicken), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of 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; bake for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Topping

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

Step 7: Serve

Let casserole stand for 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 delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some great serving suggestions to consider.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the casserole’s richness.
• Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch.

Add Bread

• Garlic Bread: Its buttery and garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the cheesy casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Include Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Adds a nutty flavor and is easy to prepare alongside the casserole.
• Steamed Green Beans: Their bright color and slight crunch balance the meal beautifully.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking Rice: Cook only until tender; it will finish cooking in the oven.
• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
• Layer Cheese Wisely: Distributing cheese throughout the dish ensures every bite is cheesy goodness.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes helps it set up nicely.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

When serving Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, pairing it with delicious side dishes enhances the overall meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Coleslaw: This tangy side adds crunch and complements the creamy casserole well.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a lovely contrast in flavors and textures.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes offer comfort and pair wonderfully with the casserole’s flavors.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a delightful crunch that balances out the dish’s softness.
5. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries: These healthy fries are crispy, offering a crunchy element that pairs nicely with the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some key points to keep in mind.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken and rice can lead to a bland casserole. Always season each layer for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Adding broccoli too early can make it mushy. Cook it just right by adding it during the last few minutes of rice cooking.
• Not using enough cheese: A lack of cheese will result in a less creamy and cheesy casserole. Use the recommended amount for that rich texture.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting well. Opt for freshly shredded cheese for better results.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes before serving for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• item Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• item Assemble without baking and freeze in an airtight container.
• item Keep frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish on medium power until warm, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy dish made with chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese, all baked together for a comforting meal.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and patted dry before adding it to prevent excess moisture.

How do I customize this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out chicken for turkey or ham based on your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to two days in advance or freeze it for later use without baking.

What should I serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only creamy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various proteins or veggies based on your family’s taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a meal prep option!

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