When comfort food cravings strike, nothing satisfies quite like a hearty casserole. This ultimate chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole delivers on all fronts: it’s creamy, wonderfully cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. Featuring simple ingredients and quick prep, this recipe promises a delicious family dinner with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead or freezing for future busy nights.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
This delightful chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole quickly becomes a household favorite for many reasons:
- Rich, Comforting Flavors: It brings together classic ingredients in a deeply satisfying, creamy, and cheesy blend.
- Quick Weeknight Dinner Solution: With minimal hands-on time, it’s ideal for busy evenings.
- Adaptable for Meal Prep: Prepare it in advance to enjoy fresh, homemade meals all week long.
- Crispy, Buttery Topping: A golden Ritz cracker crust adds an irresistible texture contrast.
- Versatile for Dietary Needs: Easily adjust ingredients to suit various preferences or dietary considerations.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for your creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole:
For the Casserole Base:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- Salt/Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ¼ cups white long grain rice, uncooked
- 2-3 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked
- 10.5 oz. Cream of Chicken Soup, (condensed)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, separated
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Crispy Topping:
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works beautifully for even faster prep.
- Rice: Long grain white rice is recommended for its texture. For brown or wild rice, adjust the liquid and cooking time according to package directions.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide the best texture. If using frozen, thaw them thoroughly and pat them very dry before adding to prevent a watery casserole.
- Condensed Soup: Cream of chicken soup provides classic flavor. You can make a homemade cream soup alternative for a from-scratch option.
- Cheese: Always use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt and creamiest texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting. Food science explains how anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese can affect its texture and melt when heated, as explored in a study on consumer perceptions of anticake agents on shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Creaminess: Sour cream adds a lovely tang and richness. Mayonnaise works well as an alternative if you prefer.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amounts of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to match your personal taste preferences.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools to make this delightful chicken and broccoli bake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and sharp knife
How To Make This Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Creating this comforting chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time.
- Preheat your oven to 350° F. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s fully melted. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and lightly cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and uncooked white long grain rice to the same pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook for 6 minutes.
- After 6 minutes, carefully remove the lid and add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot with the rice. Replace the cover tightly. Continue to cook for 9 more minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked through. If the rice isn’t quite tender, quickly replace the lid and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat but keep it covered. Let the rice and broccoli stand undisturbed for 10 minutes. This standing time ensures any rice stuck to the bottom of the pot will easily release.
- To the pot with the rice and broccoli, add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, dried thyme, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir all ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Transfer the entire chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture into the prepared dish. Evenly top the casserole with the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- While the casserole bakes, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix well.
- After 15 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling.
- Remove the chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This short rest allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieve the best results with your chicken and broccoli bake with these helpful tips.
- Prevent Dry Casserole: Avoid overcooking the chicken or rice. Overcooked ingredients can lead to a dry finished dish.
- Creamy Texture: Ensure you thoroughly combine the soup, milk, and sour cream mixture with the rice and chicken for a consistently creamy result.
- Crispy Topping: For the crispiest topping, wait until the final 10 minutes of baking to add the buttered Ritz crackers.
- Flavor Boost: Sauté a finely diced onion or a couple of minced garlic cloves with the chicken at the start for an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Cheese Melt: Always opt for a block of cheddar cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded varieties often contain starches that can make the cheese less melty and sometimes grainy.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
This versatile chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole pairs well with many sides and adapts easily to your needs.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve a crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Offer warm, crusty bread for soaking up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- Pair with simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots for added nutrition.
Storage Instructions
For optimal safety and quality, the USDA provides comprehensive guidelines for safe storage of cooked leftovers, including casseroles.
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover chicken and broccoli bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze either the unbaked or baked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe Variations
- Protein: Experiment with cooked turkey, ground beef, or even plant-based protein alternatives.
- Vegetables: Stir in other complementary vegetables like peas, corn, or cauliflower florets.
- Topping: Instead of Ritz crackers, try crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor profile with a pinch of paprika, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick.
- Cheese: Substitute part of the cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorite melty cheeses for a different twist.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Nutrition Information
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious chicken and broccoli bake. These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 511 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Protein | 23 g |
| Fat | 33 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17 g |
| Cholesterol | 100 mg |
| Sodium | 1174 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Trans Fat | 1 g |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
For lower sodium or fat options, opt for low-sodium broth, reduced-fat cheese, and homemade cream of chicken soup.
FAQ
Got questions about making this comforting chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole? Here are some common inquiries.
- Can I use pre-cooked rice? Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice. Adjust the amount to about 3 cups cooked rice and skip the initial cooking steps for the rice.
- Is this recipe spicy? No, this recipe is not spicy. The seasonings are mild, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
- How to adjust for a smaller crowd? Halve all the ingredients and bake in an 8×8-inch square dish. Baking times might need slight adjustment.
- Can I add other seasonings? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with seasonings like a pinch of smoked paprika, onion powder, or a dash of dried parsley.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole completely (without the cracker topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
Conclusion
This easy and cheesy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole truly embodies simple, flavorful home cooking. It’s a wonderfully comforting dish that brings joy to any dinner table, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family gatherings. We encourage you to try this recipe, share its warmth with your loved ones, and savor every creamy, cheesy bite. Please leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share your delicious creations with us!
Easy & Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
This comforting and hearty casserole features tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice, all bound together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, it’s an easy and delicious meal perfect for any weeknight.
Kitchen Equipment
- Oven
- Large Pot
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
Recipe Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- Salt/Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/4 cups white long grain rice uncooked
- 2-3 cups fresh broccoli florets uncooked
- 10.5 oz. Cream of Chicken Soup (condensed)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese separated
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown for about 5 minutes; remove and set aside.
- Add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the pot, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 6 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli, replace the cover, and cook for 9 more minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
- Remove the pot from heat, keeping it covered, and let the rice stand for 10 minutes without stirring to release any rice from the bottom.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot, then add cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese; stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, top with the remaining cheese, cover, and bake for 15 minutes.
- Combine melted butter and crushed crackers, sprinkle over the casserole, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown; then serve.
Notes
Refer to your rice package for specific liquid amounts and cooking times, as this recipe uses white long grain rice and the provided cooking times are tailored for it. Ensure the rice is fully cooked through before proceeding.
