Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that everyone will love. It’s an ideal option for family dinners or meal prep and offers a unique combination of flavors and textures. With its one-pot preparation and crunchy Ritz cracker topping, this easy casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead meal for gatherings.

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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: 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 Fresh Green Salad
• With Garlic Bread
• With Roasted Vegetables
• With Steamed Asparagus
• With Mashed Potatoes
• 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 use instead of cream of chicken soup?
• Is it possible to use frozen broccoli?
• How do I customize my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• Can I use rotisserie chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one pot.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheese creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for quick dinners during the week or freeze it for later use.
• Kid-Approved: This casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters with its cheesy goodness.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, 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: Ideal for cooking the chicken, rice, and broccoli all in one place.
• Casserole dish: Perfectly sized for baking the casserole until golden brown and bubbly.
• Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking when layering your casserole.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

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

Step 3: 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 from the pot and set aside. (Skip this step if using rotisserie chicken.)

Step 4: Cook the Rice and Broccoli

To the same pot, add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cover and cook for 6 minutes.
Add the broccoli to the pot, cover again, and cook for 9 more minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
If not fully cooked, replace lid and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Turn off heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

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

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
Transfer the rice mixture to the dish evenly.
Top with remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Step 7: Add the Topping

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

Step 8: Serve

Let stand for 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 is simple and allows for creativity. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides to enhance your meal experience.

With a Fresh Green Salad

• A light, crisp green salad complements the richness of the casserole. Use a mix of your favorite greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch to your meal. Toast baguette slices with butter and garlic for a warm side.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables provide a healthy addition. Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and roast until tender for an easy side dish.

With Steamed Asparagus

• Steamed asparagus offers a fresh, vibrant taste. Drizzle with lemon juice for added brightness that pairs nicely with the casserole.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting combo. Use butter and cream for richness that balances the casserole’s flavors.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To make your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole even better, consider these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and cheese will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your casserole.
• Don’t Overcook the Rice: Ensure your rice is just cooked through before combining ingredients; this prevents a mushy texture.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavor profiles.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or add spices like paprika for an extra kick.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Pairing sides with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provides a nice contrast to the casserole’s creaminess.
2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich flavors of the casserole.
3. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob brings summer vibes. Grill or boil it to enhance its natural sweetness.
4. Baked Beans
   Baked beans offer a hearty addition with their sweet and savory notes, making them a perfect complement.
5. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy garlic roasted potatoes add texture while keeping you satisfied alongside the casserole.
6. Sautéed Spinach
   Lightly sautéed spinach drizzled with lemon juice introduces freshness that pairs well with cheesy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of rice: Using quick-cooking or instant rice can lead to a mushy casserole. Stick with long-grain white rice for the best texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Chicken and vegetables need seasoning to enhance flavor. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs in your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli turns mushy and loses its bright color. Add it later in the cooking process for perfect tenderness.
• Neglecting to grease the dish: Failing to grease your casserole dish can cause sticking. Always use cooking spray or butter for an easy release.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the casserole sit after baking helps it set and makes serving easier. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole in an airtight container.
• It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Assemble the casserole but do not bake it before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with homemade cream of chicken soup or a different creamy soup like cream of mushroom.

Is it possible to use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Just thaw and pat dry your frozen broccoli before adding it to ensure the right texture.

How do I customize my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers, or mix in different cheeses for added flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time while still getting delicious flavors in your casserole.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prep for the week, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its creamy goodness!

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