A Comforting, Cheesy, One-Pot Meal Packed with Flavor!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Recipe Category: Main Dish
Recipe Cuisine: American
Aggregate Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5 from 1,050 reviews)
This Best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and nutritious broccoli come together in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s sure to please the whole family. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or basmati)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or use homemade)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (30g) crushed crackers (like Ritz or buttery crackers)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well coated and combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For Extra Creaminess: Add a cup of heavy cream to the casserole mixture for a richer, creamier texture.
- Customize the Veggies: If you don’t like broccoli, you can substitute it with cauliflower, spinach, or peas.
- Meal Prep: This casserole is great for meal prepping. Assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh! Be sure to steam it and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice is a great, healthier alternative. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven!
Keywords
chicken broccoli rice casserole, easy chicken casserole, creamy chicken broccoli casserole, cheesy chicken rice casserole, one-pot casserole recipes, comfort food casserole
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