Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delicious blend of creamy and cheesy flavors, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or quick meal prep. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rice into a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. With a buttery Ritz cracker topping, this casserole not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses at any occasion, from busy weeknights to potluck 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:
• REMEMBER
• 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
• Casual Dinner
• Family Style
• Meal Prep
• 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 frozen broccoli in my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• How do I customize my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• What can I serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
• How do I know when my casserole is done baking?
• Can I make this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture and savory taste make it a family favorite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for effortless weeknight meals.
• Kid-Approved: The cheesy goodness is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Casserole dish (9×13-inch)
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking chicken and rice together without needing multiple pans.
• Casserole dish: Perfect size for baking and serving this hearty meal.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients smoothly before baking.

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

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How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect bubbly finish.

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 heat and set aside. (Skip this step if using rotisserie chicken.)

Step 4: Cook the Rice and Broccoli

In the same pot:
– Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer.
– Cover and cook for 6 minutes.
– Add broccoli to the pot; cover again and cook for another 9 minutes or until rice is tender.

If needed, simmer an additional 5 minutes until fully cooked. Turn off heat; let sit covered for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

Add 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 casserole dish with cooking spray.
– Transfer rice mixture into it and spread evenly.
– Top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil; bake for 15 minutes.

Step 7: Add the Topping

While baking:
– Melt butter; mix with crushed Ritz crackers.
After baking for 15 minutes:
– Remove foil; sprinkle cracker mixture on top.
– Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread! Enjoy your delightful Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serving Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can elevate your meal experience, making it both enjoyable and satisfying. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Casual Dinner

• With a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up any extra creamy goodness from the casserole.

Family Style

• In Individual Portions: For a more personalized touch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or bowls.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish each serving with chopped parsley or chives for an added burst of flavor.

Meal Prep

• As a Freezer Meal: Divide leftovers into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• With Steamed Vegetables: Complement your meal prep containers with seasonal steamed veggies for balanced nutrition.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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

• Bold Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times as ovens can vary. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
• Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh broccoli and chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Bold Cheese Selection: Opt for block cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and creaminess.
• Bold Allow to Rest: Let the casserole sit after baking. This helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.
• Bold Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different herbs or spices to customize the casserole to your taste.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Finding the right side dishes can enhance your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole experience. Here are some excellent pairings.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and freshness to your plate.
3. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a lovely contrast in flavor and texture.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness to each bite of casserole.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the creamy dish beautifully during summer months.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can be easy, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using uncooked chicken – Ensure your chicken is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole. This avoids undercooked meat and ensures safety.
• Skipping the seasoning – Don’t forget to season your ingredients! Salt and pepper enhance the flavors of the casserole, making it more delicious.
• Not letting rice sit – After cooking, allow the rice to sit covered for 10 minutes. This helps absorb any excess moisture and improves texture.
• Overbaking without toppings – If you bake for too long without adding the cracker topping, it may dry out. Follow the timing carefully for a perfect result.
• Using low-quality cheese – Opt for freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded varieties may not melt well, affecting the creaminess of your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• item Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months.
• item Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• item Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• item Microwave – Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• item Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli in my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just make sure to thaw them and pat dry before adding them to avoid excess moisture.

How do I customize my Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or try using a different type of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for variation.

What can I serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal that complements its creamy texture.

How do I know when my casserole is done baking?

The casserole is ready when it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only creamy and cheesy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, so give this recipe a try!