Description
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty family dinner that’s both easy to prepare and delicious. Combining tender cooked chicken, nutritious broccoli, creamy soup, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection, this casserole makes a perfect main course for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed or blanched)
Carbohydrates
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
Dairy and Soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (if using topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Add Topping (Optional): If you prefer a crunchy topping, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer to add texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that works great in this recipe.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to vary the flavor according to your preference.
- For a healthier alternative, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt and use brown rice instead of white rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
