Description
This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and simple one-dish meal featuring shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a family dinner, it combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavors to create a hearty casserole that’s ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked white rice, steamed broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to ensure uniform baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs, if using. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole to add a crunchy, golden crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set slightly for easier portioning and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade béchamel or cream of mushroom soup if preferred.
- Feel free to use brown rice for a healthier option, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- If you want extra vegetables, try adding chopped carrots or bell peppers along with the broccoli.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping altogether.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving to save time on busy days.
