Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Whipping it up is easy, and it offers a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love. This casserole suits various occasions, from busy weeknights to cozy gatherings. Its standout feature is the buttery Ritz cracker topping that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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
• Add Fresh Vegetables
• Enhance with Sauces
• Incorporate Bread
• 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 make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?
• What can I substitute for chicken in this casserole?
• How do I keep my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole creamy?
• Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this casserole is ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one pot, simplifying cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy chicken and cheese mixed with broccoli will warm your heart.
• Customizable: Easily adapt with leftover chicken or different veggies based on your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store; you’ll have delicious meals ready to go!

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Cooking spray
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Allows you to cook all ingredients together seamlessly.
• Casserole dish: Perfect for baking and serving your delicious creation.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking, making cleanup easier when serving.

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

PIN THIS!

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

Step 4: 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 until everything combines well.

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 cheese. Cover with foil; bake for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Topping

While casserole bakes, melt butter; mix with crushed Ritz crackers. After baking for 15 minutes, remove foil; sprinkle cracker mixture over top. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Let casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a fresh green salad or garlic bread!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serving Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can elevate your dining experience. This creamy and cheesy dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a crisp texture and vibrant color.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These bring a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Mixed Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the creamy dish.

Enhance with Sauces

• Hot Sauce: A few drops of hot sauce can add a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.
• Sriracha Mayo: This creamy dip offers a delightful contrast to the casserole’s texture.

Incorporate Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls make for a comforting addition to your meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To ensure that your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs like thyme or garlic to enhance the flavor profile of your casserole.
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing in other ingredients for the best texture.
• Quality Cheese: Shred your own cheddar cheese for optimal melting and creaminess.
• Broccoli Preparation: If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time for busy weeknights; just adjust baking time if it’s refrigerated or frozen.
• Cover While Baking: Covering with foil prevents over-browning while allowing the casserole to cook evenly.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and flavor.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory casserole beautifully; grill or boil for best results.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes enhance the comfort level of this meal; consider garlic mashed for an upgrade.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.
5. Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and balances out the richness of the dish.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with this hearty casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Boldly skip the seasoning: Forgetting to season your chicken or rice can leave your casserole bland. Always season each component well for a delicious outcome.
• Boldly overcook the broccoli: Cooking the broccoli too long may lead to a mushy texture. Add it in at the right time for perfect tenderness.
• Boldly use pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, affecting melting quality. Grate fresh cheese for better results.
• Boldly ignore liquid ratios: Using too much or too little liquid can ruin the casserole’s consistency. Stick to the recommended amounts for optimal texture.
• Boldly rush the cooling time: Cutting into the casserole immediately will cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for five minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Item: Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Item: Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Item: Freeze the uncooked casserole in an airtight container.
• Item: Best used within three months for optimal taste.
• Item: Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Boldly use the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Boldly use the Microwave: Place serving portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Boldly use the Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it up to two days in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

What can I substitute for chicken in this casserole?

You can replace chicken with diced turkey, cooked sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I keep my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole creamy?

Make sure you use enough cream of chicken soup and sour cream, and consider adding more cheese for extra creaminess.

Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to include carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not just comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preference. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, it’s sure to please everyone at your table!

---