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.
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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)
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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.
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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.
