Creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole: comfort food dinner

Easy chicken broccoli rice casserole: a family favorite

Looking for a comforting and easy dinner that the whole family will love? This chicken broccoli rice casserole is the answer! It’s packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and just the right amount of broccoli, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a go-to for quick and satisfying meals. It's a classic casserole that brings back nostalgic memories for many, and is sure to become a family favorite in your home too.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. You can easily swap out the cheese, add different vegetables, or use different types of protein. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why you'll love this recipe

• Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy flavors that everyone adores.
• One-Dish Dinner: Protein, veggies, and carbs all in one pan for easy cleanup.
• Pantry-Friendly: Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients you likely already have.
• Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
• Perfect for Busy Nights: Comfort food without requiring a lot of extra effort.

Ingredients you'll need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients. You likely have many of these on hand already! Here's what you'll need to make this delicious casserole:

• Olive Oil: 1 Tablespoon
• White Long Grain Rice: 1 ¼ Cups (uncooked)
• Chicken Broth: 2 ½ Cups
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh broccoli Florets: 3 Cups (uncooked)
• Cooked Chicken Breasts: 2 Cups (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 Can (10.5 oz)
• Milk: ½ Cup
• Sour Cream: ½ Cup
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 Cups (shredded, separated)
• Cracker Topping: 2 Tablespoons (melted unsalted butter) + 1 Cup (crushed Ritz Crackers)

How to make creamy chicken broccoli casserole

This casserole comes together quickly and easily! Follow these simple steps for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 6 minutes.
4. Add broccoli and stir. Replace the lid and cook for another 9 minutes, ensuring all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.
5. Stir in cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Cover and bake for 15 minutes.
8. In a small bowl, combine melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle over the casserole and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serving suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are some side dish ideas:

• Simple green salad
• Tomato cucumber salad
• Roasted carrots
• Sauteed snap peas
• Fresh fruit salad

Make-ahead & storage

This chicken broccoli rice casserole is perfect for meal prepping! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

• Freezing: Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition information (per 1.5 cups)

• Calories: 398 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 24g

Enjoy this comforting and delicious chicken broccoli rice casserole – a guaranteed hit with the whole family!