Description
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, hearty, one-pan meal packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or brown rice
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup or homemade creamy base
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs or crushed crackers for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice and chicken broth, bringing it to a boil.
- Add Soup and Milk: Lower the heat, mix in the cream of chicken soup and milk, and stir well.
- Incorporate Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the mixture, stirring to combine.
- Bake the Casserole: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the rice is tender.
- Add Topping (Optional): If using breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, mix them with melted butter, sprinkle over the casserole, and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes for a golden, crispy topping.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a Mexican blend for different flavors.
- Make it Lighter: Use low-fat cheese, milk, and soup for a healthier version.
- Add More Vegetables: Peas, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be included for extra nutrients.
- Swap Proteins: Substitute cooked turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free condensed soup and breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheesy casserole, chicken and rice, broccoli casserole, easy dinner, comfort food