Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. It’s a one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with golden, buttery Ritz crackers, this recipe is as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals ahead of time, or feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

• Effortless Preparation: Simple steps and one-pot cooking for easy cleanup.
• Versatile Ingredients: Works with fresh or frozen broccoli, rotisserie chicken, and pantry staples.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: A dish the whole family will enjoy.

---

Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

Ensure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large pot: To cook the chicken, rice, and broccoli.
• 9×13-inch casserole dish: For baking.
• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients and preparing the topping.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the casserole during baking.

Preparation Tips

• Dice chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• For frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
• Shred cheese from a block for better melting results.

---

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Butter: 2 tbsp
• Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken)
• Seasonings: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
• Chicken Broth: 2½ cups
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
• Rice: 1¼ cups white long-grain, uncooked
• Broccoli: 2 cups fresh florets (or 2 cups frozen, thawed and patted dry)
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 10.5 oz condensed
• Milk: ½ cup
• Sour Cream: ½ cup
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded, divided

Optional Seasonings

• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Topping

• Ritz Crackers: 1 cup, crushed
• Butter: 2 tbsp, melted

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
• Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  (If using rotisserie chicken, skip this step.)

3. Cook the Rice and Broccoli

• To the same pot, add 2½ cups chicken broth, 1 tbsp olive oil, and 1¼ cups rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
• Cover and cook for 6 minutes.
• Add the broccoli florets, cover again, and cook for 9 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
• Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes to release any rice stuck to the bottom.

4. Combine the Casserole Ingredients

• To the pot with the rice and broccoli, add:
• The cooked chicken (or rotisserie chicken)
• Cream of chicken soup
• Milk
• Sour cream
• Half of the shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional seasonings (thyme and garlic powder) if desired
• Stir until everything is thoroughly combined.

5. Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer the rice mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
• Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.

6. Prepare and Add the Topping

• While the casserole is baking, mix 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tbsp melted butter in a small bowl.
• After 15 minutes of baking, remove the foil from the casserole. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top.
• Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

7. Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

---

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

1. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Adds a savory, crispy side to complement the casserole.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Drizzle with lemon butter for a fresh, zesty touch.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Enhance the comfort factor with buttery, creamy potatoes.
6. Classic Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing side that contrasts the warm, cheesy casserole.
7. Sautéed Mushrooms: Cooked in garlic and herbs, they add earthy flavors to the meal.
8. Fruit Salad: A mix of sweet and juicy fruits offers a light and refreshing finish.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Rice

• Mistake: Cooking the rice too long can lead to mushy texture.
• Solution: Follow the timing instructions closely and check for doneness before adding the broccoli.

2. Not Preparing Broccoli Properly

• Mistake: Adding frozen broccoli without thawing can make the casserole watery.
• Solution: Thaw frozen broccoli and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.

3. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

• Mistake: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect melting.
• Solution: Shred cheese from a block for better texture and flavor.

4. Burning the Cracker Topping

• Mistake: Leaving the topping in the oven for too long can cause it to burn.
• Solution: Keep a close eye on the casserole during the final 10 minutes of baking.

---

How to Perfect the Recipe

Customize to Your Taste

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
• Toss in some diced red bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Experiment with Cheese

• Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.

Topping Variations

• Try panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers for a different crunch.
• Mix in grated Parmesan with the topping for extra savory flavor.

---

Recipe Tips for Success

• Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg to brighten the creamy sauce.
• Boost Nutrition: Mix in extra veggies like diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms.
• Make It Your Own: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken, or swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Assemble the casserole without baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Oven: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Pro Tip: If reheating a frozen casserole, thaw it in the fridge overnight and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Add extra chicken broth as needed.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

3. What can I use instead of sour cream?

Try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a healthier or lactose-free option.

4. How can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cheese, and coconut milk or almond milk as substitutes for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! This recipe is flexible. Add diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value.

6. Can I use leftover chicken or turkey?

Definitely. Leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey works perfectly in this recipe.

7. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming dry?

Cover the casserole with foil while baking and avoid overcooking. Adding a little extra milk can also keep it moist.

---

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy comfort with a crunchy topping that makes every bite irresistible. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and customizable options make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers, this casserole is sure to satisfy.

Try it today and make it your own with the tips and variations provided. Happy cooking!