Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s both delicious and nutritious, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe is a fantastic option. Packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, offering tips, substitutions, and variations to ensure you can customize the dish to your liking. Read on to discover how you can make this irresistible casserole your new family favorite!

What is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a savory, oven-baked dish that combines shredded or cubed chicken with steamed broccoli and cooked rice, all mixed together with a creamy cheese sauce. It's often topped with breadcrumbs or additional cheese to add a crispy, golden finish. This casserole is a one-dish meal that can be easily prepared ahead of time, frozen, and baked later, making it an ideal solution for meal prep.

Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (or 3 cups cooked rice)
• 3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
• 1 ¼ cups milk or heavy cream
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is versatile, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations:

• Protein: Swap chicken for turkey, tofu, or even ground beef for a different flavor profile. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here.
• Rice: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice instead of white rice to make the dish heartier or lower in carbs.
• Broccoli: Replace broccoli with other vegetables like spinach, green beans, or zucchini. A mix of vegetables also works well for added texture and flavor.
• Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use mozzarella, Swiss, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
• Soup: If you want to avoid canned soup, make your own creamy base using equal parts chicken broth and milk thickened with a roux.
• Toppings: Add crushed crackers, crispy onions, or even bacon bits on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the casserole once assembled.
2. Cook the Rice
   Cook the rice according to the package instructions. For added flavor, cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken
   If you’re using uncooked chicken breasts, poach or bake them until they’re fully cooked. Allow them to cool slightly, then shred or cube the chicken. If you’re using pre-cooked or leftover chicken, simply chop or shred it as needed.
4. Steam the Broccoli
   In a pot with a steamer insert, steam the broccoli for 3-5 minutes until it’s bright green and tender but still slightly crisp. You can also microwave the broccoli with a bit of water for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce
   In the skillet with the onions and garlic, stir in the cream of chicken soup, milk (or cream), sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Cook over medium heat until the mixture is heated through and smooth.
7. Combine Everything
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and the creamy sauce. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Transfer to a Casserole Dish
   Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Add Toppings
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you’re adding breadcrumbs, mix them with a little melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for extra crunch.
10. Bake the Casserole
    Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
11. Let It Rest
    Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooked Rice: Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Undercooked rice can result in a chewy texture that detracts from the dish.
• Overcooked Broccoli: Steaming the broccoli just until tender ensures it stays bright green and retains its texture. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
• Not Enough Sauce: This casserole should be creamy, but not soupy. Make sure to use the right amount of liquid ingredients to avoid a dry or overly watery casserole.
• Burnt Topping: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking to ensure the cheese or breadcrumbs don’t burn. Use foil if needed to prevent this.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few sides for a well-rounded dinner. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables makes a great accompaniment. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For extra freshness, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or chives.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Individual Servings: If you’re hosting a dinner, consider portioning the casserole into individual ramekins or mini-casserole dishes for a more elegant presentation.
• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, allowing everyone to scoop out their portions at the table. This casual style is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezer-Friendly: To freeze, assemble the casserole and skip the baking step. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe easily doubles for larger crowds. Simply use a larger casserole dish and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the dish.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just be sure to cook it fully before adding it to the casserole, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

How long does leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole last?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare, bake, and serve. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become a staple in your household!

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