Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that brings comfort to any family dinner or meal prep. With its one-pot simplicity and a crispy Ritz cracker topping, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a wholesome dinner, this casserole will surely satisfy your cravings.

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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:
• How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Cook the Rice and Broccoli
• Step 5: Combine the Casserole Ingredients
• Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 7: Add the Topping
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• With a Green Salad
• With Garlic Bread
• With Steamed Vegetables
• With Fruit Salad
• 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
• Can I use rotisserie chicken in my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• How do I make my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole healthier?
• Can I customize my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• What sides pair well with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• How long does it take to prepare Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Save on cleanup with all ingredients cooked in one pot before baking.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of chicken, broccoli, and cheese is loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use rotisserie chicken or fresh chicken; fresh or frozen broccoli – the choice is yours!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials you’ll need to prepare this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the chicken, rice, and broccoli together efficiently.
• Casserole dish: Ensures even baking and easy serving of your casserole.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

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

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly once assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
3. Remove from heat and set aside. (Skip this step if using rotisserie chicken.)

Step 4: Cook the Rice and Broccoli

1. In the same pot, add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
3. Cover and cook for 6 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pot; cover again and cook for another 9 minutes until rice is tender.
5. If rice isn’t cooked through after this time, replace lid and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Turn off heat; let sit covered for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

Add cooked chicken (or rotisserie), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir well until combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. Transfer rice mixture to dish; spread evenly.
3. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
4. Cover with aluminum foil; bake for 15 minutes.

Step 7: Add the Topping

1. While baking, melt butter; mix with crushed Ritz crackers.
2. After 15 minutes of baking, remove foil; sprinkle cracker mixture over top.
3. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve

Let casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to complete your meal!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serving Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is easy and fun. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its creamy and cheesy flavor.

With a Green Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing complement the richness of the casserole.

With Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices topped with garlic butter add a crunchy texture to your meal.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgence, sprinkle some cheese on top before broiling until bubbly.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans steamed lightly maintain their color and add nutrition.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out sweetness in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

With Fruit Salad

• Fresh Fruit Medley: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to the savory casserole.
• Citrus Salad: Combining oranges and grapefruits can brighten up the meal.

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How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To achieve the best results with your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, follow these simple tips for a delightful dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli will enhance flavor compared to frozen options.
• Cook Rice Properly: Ensure you follow the cooking times to avoid mushy rice; it should remain slightly firm.
• Add Extra Cheese: For a cheesier casserole, feel free to increase the amount of cheddar cheese used.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with seasonings; adjusting flavors can elevate the entire dish.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking helps it set for easier serving.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

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 delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that balance the richness of the casserole.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that complements many meals beautifully.
4. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans provide an earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken dishes.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies adds nutrition and texture contrast.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts bring a nutty flavor that works wonderfully alongside the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Using frozen broccoli without thawing: Thaw and pat dry frozen broccoli before adding it to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole watery.
• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Season the chicken well with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for enhanced flavor throughout the dish.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Shred cheese from a block for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.
• Overcooking the rice: Keep an eye on the rice while cooking. If it’s overcooked, it can become mushy. Follow the timing closely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• item Assemble without baking and store in a freezer-safe container.
• item Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Can I use rotisserie chicken in my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just add it when combining the casserole ingredients.

How do I make my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole healthier?

You can substitute brown rice for white rice and use low-fat sour cream and cheese to reduce calories while keeping it delicious.

Can I customize my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also switch out cheeses based on your preference.

What sides pair well with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

The total time is about 1 hour, including preparation and baking.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only creamy and cheesy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, you can customize it with different veggies or cheeses based on what you have on hand. Give this comforting dish a try; your family will love it!