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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole

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When it comes to satisfying comfort food, nothing beats my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole. It’s a go-to dish in my kitchen because it’s so easy to make and always a hit with my family. I start by mixing tender chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and a blend of flavorful seasonings. Then, I layer everything together in a casserole dish, topping it off with a generous helping of melted cheese for that irresistible cheesy goodness.

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole

I have a soft spot for comforting meals like Dutch Oven Chili, Dutch Oven Pot Roast, Cornbread Cowboy Casserole, and this cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole. They’re all so warm and hearty, just like home.

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of this casserole wafting through the house as it bakes to golden perfection. And when it finally comes out of the oven, piping hot and bubbling with cheesy goodness, it’s pure comfort on a plate. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner like or a potluck gathering with friends, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole always steals the show.

Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken, cubed
  • 1 head broccoli, florets (approximately 2 cups)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 10 oz can cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 8 oz Cheddar Cheese
  • Ritz Topping:
  • 20 Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a skillet, sauté the cubed chicken until no longer pink.
  • Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Add rice, condensed soup, and broccoli to the skillet.
  • Pour in water and bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Sprinkle cheese over the top.
  • Cover the skillet tightly and transfer to the preheated oven.
  • Bake for 20 minutes.
  • After removing from the oven, add the Ritz cracker topping.
  • Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the top is golden brown.
  • Ritz Topping: Crush the crackers and drizzle melted butter over them.
  • Saute Chicken
  • Chicken Broccoli Rice
  • Bring to a boil rice dish
  • Cheese on broccoli and chicken casserole and bake
  • Add Ritz Crackers to chicken casserole
  • Broccoli chicken Casserole
Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Tips & Tricks

  • Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time during the week, consider prepping the ingredients ahead of time. You can chop the chicken, broccoli, and garlic in advance, making assembly a breeze when it’s time to cook.
  • Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh broccoli and good-quality chicken can significantly enhance the flavor of the casserole.
  • Customize Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor, or spice it up with some chili flakes for a kick.
  • Double Up for Leftovers: This chicken broccoli casserole makes fantastic leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. Consider doubling the recipe so you can enjoy it throughout the week without any extra effort.
  • Properly Cook the Rice: Ensure the rice is cooked properly before assembling the casserole. Undercooked rice can result in a crunchy texture, while overcooked rice may turn mushy. Follow the recommended cooking time on the rice package for best results.
  • Layer Ingredients Evenly: When assembling the casserole, distribute the ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. This will also help the casserole cook evenly.
  • Don’t Forget the Cheese: The cheese topping adds a deliciously gooey texture and flavor to the casserole. Be generous with the cheese, and consider using a blend of different cheeses for added depth of flavor.
  • Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to slice and serve.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with the Ritz cracker topping. You can add extra ingredients like grated Parmesan cheese, chopped nuts, or even crispy bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.
  • Serve with Sides: While the casserole is delicious on its own, consider serving it with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Chicken Broccoli Casserole on a spoon
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

FAQs about chicken and rice casserole

Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh broccoli in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the casserole.

Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is commonly used in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

The casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when properly covered or stored in an airtight container.

Yes, this casserole is freezer-friendly. Once baked, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or dinner rolls.

Yes, this casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate until needed. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if baking from cold.

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas.

Instant rice can be used as a substitute for long-grain rice, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice.

Yes, leftover cooked chicken can be used in this recipe. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the casserole during the assembly step.

Try these other great casserole dishes!

Instant Pot Cheesy Tuna Helper Casserole

Instant Pot Homemade Lasagna Hamburger Helper

One pan Homemade Hamburger Helper

Tater Tot Casserole

cheesy-chicken-broccoli-rice-casserole
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Yield: 1
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

When it comes to satisfying comfort food, nothing beats my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole. It’s a go-to dish in my kitchen because it’s so easy to make and always a hit with my family. I start by mixing tender chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and a blend of flavorful seasonings. Then, I layer everything together in a casserole dish, topping it off with a generous helping of melted cheese for that irresistible cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken, cubed
  • 1 head broccoli, florets (approximately 2 cups)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 10 oz can cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
  • 8 oz Cheddar Cheese
  • Ritz Topping:
  • 20 Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, sauté the cubed chicken until no longer pink.
  3. Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add rice, condensed soup, and broccoli to the skillet.
  5. Pour in water and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Sprinkle cheese over the top.
  7. Cover the skillet tightly and transfer to the preheated oven.
  8. Bake for 20 minutes.
  9. After removing from the oven, add the Ritz cracker topping.
  10. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the top is golden brown.

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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 487Total Fat: 28gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 119mgSodium: 805mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 35g

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© Adventures of a Nurse
Cuisine: American / Category: Dinner

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Welcome to the place where my two passions—healthcare and culinary arts—merge. I’m Carla Bushey, and I’ve transitioned from a dedicated nursing career of over 25 years into the dynamic world of food blogging. This space is dedicated to bringing you a treasure trove of recipes, each a testament to the tastes and traditions that resonate with my soul. My home, the beautiful Upstate New York, serves as the backdrop to my culinary creations, often inspired by the rich cultural heritage and the classic Italian cuisine of my hometown, Utica. Dishes like the beloved Chicken Riggies and the comforting Utica Greens are more than just recipes—they are stories, shared from my kitchen to yours.

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