Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: 7 Cheesy Comfort Tips

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Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole has been a family favorite in our home, embodying comfort and satisfaction in every bite. This scrumptious cheesy dish is made from scratch, without the need for canned creamed soup, and is topped with a buttery cracker topping that takes it over the top. With its blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy rice, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or any hearty meal. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that packs a punch in flavor and nutrition. Not only is it a family-friendly chicken broccoli rice casserole, but it also makes for a quick chicken broccoli rice casserole recipe that can be whipped up in no time. Here are some reasons to love it:

Comforting and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.
Loaded with protein from chicken, making it a healthy option.
Features broccoli, adding essential nutrients to your meal.
Can easily be made gluten-free with simple substitutions.
Perfect for meal prep; great as leftovers.
Ideal for a quick chicken broccoli rice casserole dish on busy nights.

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Gather these items:

11 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion chopped
1½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast cut in bite sizes pieces
3 cloves garlic minced
2 cups water
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
4 cups broccoli florets cut in bite size pieces
4 tablespoons all purpose flour
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried marjoram
½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1¼ cups low sodium chicken broth
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers crushed (32 crackers)

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 2 minutes. Move the onions to one side of the skillet. Add the chicken and cook until browned, flipping halfway through to brown both sides.
Step 2: Work in batches with the chicken, removing the cooked pieces to a plate and stirring the onions on the other side of the skillet. Once all the chicken is cooked, add the garlic; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Plate the onions and garlic.
Step 3: Meanwhile, add the water, 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and long-grain rice to a saucepan. Heat until boiling, and then cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Steam the broccoli on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 5: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously while cooking for 2-3 minutes. Add the crushed red pepper, onion powder, dried marjoram, and dried thyme.
Step 6: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, alternating between the two. Continue whisking and cooking until smooth and slightly thickened. Turn the heat to low and whisk in 1¼ cups of cheddar. Add the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli, and stir to coat.
Step 7: Spoon ½ of the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, then top with ½ cup cheddar. Spoon the rest of the chicken mixture in and top with the remaining cheese.
Step 8: Combine the crackers and 4 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle it over the casserole and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is browned and the cheese is melted.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick chicken broccoli rice bake.
For a creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole, consider adding cream of mushroom.
Enhance flavor by seasoning your vegetables before cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This dish is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner.
Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for some extra crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

The key to a perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is ensuring the chicken is cooked evenly and the broccoli is just tender, preserving its vibrant color and flavor.

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, making it an easy choice for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure not to overcook the rice and broccoli, as they should remain tender yet firm in your casserole.

Variations of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole You Can Try

Here are some delicious twists on this classic dish:

For a gluten-free chicken broccoli rice casserole, use gluten-free crackers and flour alternatives.
Add some spice with jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick!
Incorporate quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Broccoli Pretzel Casserole or try making Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Bake for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a quick option, consider our Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken as a side dish!