The aroma of a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven can instantly make any house feel like home. This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice, all smothered in creamy goodness. Ready in just about an hour, it’s a comforting dish that works wonders for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
This recipe is perfect for families looking for a hearty and delicious dinner option. It’s especially great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for the next day’s lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a complete meal in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Creamy layers combined with crunchy cracker topping create a delightful texture contrast.
- Infused with savory seasonings that elevate the classic flavors.
- Quick to prepare with minimal hands-on time.
What You’ll Need
For this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (separated)
For the Casserole Base
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 3 cups frozen broccoli florets
- 1½ cups white long grain rice
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
For Topping
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Note: Use low-fat cream of chicken for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Boneless chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts.
- Brown rice could be used instead of white rice.
- Sour cream may be substituted with Greek yogurt.
- Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious casserole:
Butterfly chicken
Butterfly chicken breast by slicing horizontally into the chicken, dividing it in half. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, dried parsley, and garlic powder over both sides of the chicken breast.
Cook chicken
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until melted. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Combine broth and rice
Add one tablespoon of butter to the pot. Then add chicken broth, water, and rice, bringing it to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low, simmer for 12 minutes.
Stir in broccoli
Remove the lid and stir the rice. Add broccoli and cover again, cooking for another 8 minutes.
Chop chicken
While the broccoli is cooking, chop the cooked chicken into ½ cubes.
Mix casserole ingredients
Remove broccoli and rice from heat. Add chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, onion powder, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
Transfer to baking dish
Transfer mixed ingredients to a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole baking dish.
Prepare cracker topping
Crush the Ritz crackers in the package. In a medium bowl, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Combine crushed Ritz crackers and mix together. Spread evenly over the casserole, then sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Bake casserole
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Cool before serving
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly for the best flavor.
- Let the casserole cool slightly to allow for easier cutting.
- Adjust seasoning to taste for a personal touch.
- Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs before serving for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Great for potlucks or family gatherings.
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