Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

A Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and wholesome dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, potlucks, or meal prep. This casserole brings together tender chicken, broccoli, and rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce, making it a one-dish meal that’s filling, delicious, and kid-approved. The combination of flavors and textures, from the creamy sauce to the cheesy topping and tender veggies, makes this casserole a family favorite. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this easy and flavorful casserole, along with tips, substitutions, and serving suggestions to make the perfect dish every time. Let’s get cooking!

What Is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a classic American casserole that combines cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and rice with a creamy sauce and cheese. The ingredients are layered or mixed together in a casserole dish and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a fantastic dish for busy families because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients, and it’s easy to prepare ahead of time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be modified based on what you have in your pantry or refrigerator.

Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Gather these ingredients to make this easy and delicious casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 cup milk (any kind, whole milk or 2% works best)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
• 2 tablespoon butter, melted (for the breadcrumb topping)

These ingredients will yield about 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or leftovers for lunch the next day.

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is highly versatile, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Chicken: Swap the chicken for turkey, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or a plant-based chicken substitute.
• Rice: White rice is classic, but you can use brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a different texture and nutritional profile.
• Soup: Cream of chicken is traditional, but you can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even a homemade cream sauce if you prefer.
• Cheese: Cheddar is standard, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. A little Parmesan on top can add extra flavor.
• Veggies: You can mix in other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or peas if you want to make the casserole heartier and more colorful.
• Topping: Breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping, but you can use crushed crackers, crushed potato chips, or omit the topping entirely for a simpler dish.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with what you have on hand—this dish is very forgiving and can easily be customized to suit your preferences!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Rice and Steam the Broccoli

While the oven is preheating, cook your rice according to the package instructions. You’ll need about 2 cups of cooked rice for this recipe. At the same time, steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain the broccoli and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and steamed broccoli to the sauce mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. At this point, you can also add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir it in.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 6: Add the Topping (Optional)

For a crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole. This step is optional, but it adds a delicious crunchy texture.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, the cheese is melted, and the top is golden brown.

Step 8: Let It Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to set. This makes it easier to serve.

How to Cook Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven and prep your casserole dish.
2. Cook the rice and steam the broccoli.
3. Make the creamy sauce by combining the soup, sour cream, and milk.
4. Mix the cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, and sauce together.
5. Assemble the casserole, top it with cheese and optional breadcrumbs, and bake until golden.

This recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this is an easy recipe, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli until just tender to maintain its bright color and slightly crisp texture. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy in the casserole.
2. Not Seasoning Enough: Make sure to season both the sauce and the chicken mixture with enough salt, pepper, and spices. Casseroles can sometimes be bland without proper seasoning.
3. Dry Casserole: If your casserole seems too dry, you can add a little extra milk or cheese to make the dish creamier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole as a hearty, all-in-one meal. However, if you want to round it out with some sides, here are a few serving ideas:

• Serve with a Salad: Pair the casserole with a simple green salad or Caesar salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
• Add a Side of Bread: Serve with warm dinner rolls, garlic bread, or a slice of crusty French bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Pair with Veggies: Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed mushrooms can complement the casserole nicely.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Presentation is key when serving this casserole to guests or family. Here are a few tips:

• Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top of the casserole for a pop of color.
• Serve in Individual Dishes: For a fancier presentation, portion the casserole into individual ramekins or small baking dishes.
• Add Extra Cheese: For a more indulgent presentation, top each serving with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese before serving.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it with foil and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is chilled.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumbs and cheese topping, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake as usual.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

It’s best to use cooked chicken in this recipe to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender. Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly. If using raw chicken, cook it first by boiling, baking, or sautéing.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream soup and substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs (or omit them entirely).

Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole without the topping, freeze it tightly wrapped, and thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works perfectly. Just steam or blanch it before adding it to the casserole.

Conclusion

The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings together simple ingredients for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or a dish for a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal!

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