Broccoli, Rice, Chicken and Cheese Casserole

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. It’s a delightful dish featuring homemade condensed soup, rice simmered in chicken broth, and a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Whether you cook fresh chicken or opt for the convenience of rotisserie, this casserole promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the epitome of convenience and coziness. It’s a family favorite, often requested for dinners and gatherings. The creamy texture, combined with flavorful chicken and tender broccoli, makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic freezer-friendly meal, perfect for batch cooking.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Oven
• 9 x 13-inch casserole dish
• Stovetop
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• Salt/Pepper, to taste
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups white long grain rice, uncooked
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked
• 10.5 oz. Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, separated

Optional Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Casserole Topping

• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 Tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning and desired amount of salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat until melted. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. Note: This step is not needed if using a cooked rotisserie chicken.
4. Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Cover tightly and cook for 7 minutes.
6. Add the broccoli (if using fresh) and replace the cover. Cook for 8 more minutes. Refrain from stirring.
7. Turn off the heat and remove the cover. Let the rice stand for 10 minutes, do not stir. Any rice on the bottom of the pot will release.
8. Add the cooked chicken, soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese.
9. Add to a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish and top with remaining cheese.
10. Cover and bake for 15 minutes.

Tips for Success

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly, make sure not to stir the rice while it’s cooking. This helps to achieve the ideal texture. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, skip the initial cooking step to save time.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add some extra vegetables like peas or carrots. For a spicy kick, include a dash of cayenne pepper.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is a wholesome meal that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying and nourishing option for any day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use brown rice instead? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid to ensure the rice is fully cooked.

How can I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Ready to dive into comfort food heaven? This Broccoli, Rice, Chicken, and Cheese Casserole is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and easy meal option. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below!