A Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and nutritious broccoli in a one-pan meal. Here’s a flavorful, creamy recipe for you to try:
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or use homemade if preferred)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, based on preference)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% is best)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional, for flavor depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- In a small pan, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil or butter until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Casserole Mix:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, thyme (if using), and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Make the Crumb Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes it easier to dish out.
Optional Variations:
- Add More Veggies: Try adding peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or jalapeños if you like a little heat.
- Different Cheeses: For a more complex cheese flavor, you could mix in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.
This casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines the richness of cheese with the hearty goodness of chicken, rice, and broccoli. Plus, it’s easy to make and even better as leftovers! Enjoy!