Save A creamy, comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice, all baked together in a simple homemade sauce. Perfect for weeknights and budget-friendly family meals.
This casserole was a lifesaver on a hectic weekday. Using leftover cooked chicken made prep faster, and everyone asked for seconds. It's become a staple whenever we want comfort food without fuss.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups diced or shredded (about 300 g)
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups fresh or frozen (about 200 g)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup uncooked
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups (or vegetable broth)
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) or homemade equivalent
- Milk: 1 cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (plus extra for topping)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (optional)
- Melted butter: 2 tablespoons (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the onion in a splash of oil until soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Mix Casserole Base:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli florets, sautéed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, chicken broth, condensed soup, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
- Fill Baking Dish:
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add Topping:
- If using, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over casserole. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until rice is tender, casserole is bubbling, and top is golden.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save I remember the first time my little one tried this dish: she called it 'green and cheesy rice' and asked for more before the pan cooled. Now it's often requested for family dinners.
Variations
Stir in extra veggies like sliced mushrooms or frozen peas. Switch the cheese blend or add cooked bacon for smoky flavor. Try brown rice for a heartier texture, but extend the cooking time and liquid as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad or roasted carrots. Garlic bread completes the meal for bigger appetites.
Nutrition & Allergen Information
Each serving provides 470 calories, 19 g fat, 43 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein. Contains milk, wheat, and chicken. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save This chicken and broccoli rice casserole makes leftovers that reheat wonderfully. Enjoy a cozy meal packed with flavor and veggie goodness.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use frozen broccoli for this dish?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just ensure it's thawed and drained before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
- → Is it possible to substitute brown rice?
Brown rice can be used, though it requires additional liquid and about 20 more minutes of baking time for proper tenderness.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free condensed soup and substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or omit them entirely.
- → What cheese works best for topping?
Sharp cheddar cheese provides a rich flavor and melts beautifully, enhancing the creamy texture of the casserole.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from cold.