Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole

Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Are you ready for the ultimate comfort food recipe? This chicken and rice casserole has been a staple in my family for years. Why bother separating chicken, rice, and broccoli when you can combine them into a creamy, satisfying casserole?

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
1/2 cup milk
1/2 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

How To Make Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. 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. (Skip this step if using diced rotisserie chicken.)

1. Cook Rice and Broccoli: Add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 7 minutes. Add the broccoli (if using fresh), replace the cover, and cook for an additional 8 minutes without stirring. Turn off the heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork, allowing any rice stuck to the bottom to release.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir until well combined.

1. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.

Add Topping and Bake: In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to potluck gatherings. Serve it hot and enjoy the creamy goodness of chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese melded together in every bite. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Conclusion

Creating and sharing this Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole recipe brings me immense joy, especially knowing how much my family loves it. The blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce is a comforting combination that warms both hearts and bellies. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own, perhaps adding your favorite seasonings or vegetables.

Thank you for your enthusiasm and support in exploring new culinary adventures with me. Your appreciation inspires me to continue sharing delicious recipes that bring joy to family gatherings and everyday meals alike. Here’s to many more delicious dishes shared and enjoyed together!