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A comforting Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights and family gatherings. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker crust. Easy to prepare, this dish brings convenience and flavor to your table, making it a go-to option for meals everyone will love.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 Tablespoons butter
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt/Pepper to taste
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 1/4 cups white long grain rice (uncooked)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets (uncooked)
10.5 oz. condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Optional Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Casserole Topping

1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)
2 Tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using rotisserie chicken, skip the cooking step for raw chicken.

Cook the Chicken

Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Prepare the Rice and Broccoli

Add chicken broth, olive oil, and uncooked rice to the same pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cover tightly and cook for 6 minutes.
Add the broccoli to the pot, cover again, and cook for an additional 9 minutes, or until the rice is tender and no liquid remains. If needed, simmer for 5 more minutes until the rice is cooked through.
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes without stirring. This allows the rice on the bottom to release.

Assemble the Casserole

Stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the pot with the rice.
Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Cover and bake for 15 minutes.

Add the Topping

Combine the melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers to form the topping.
Remove the casserole from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle the topping evenly over the dish.
Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Preparation: Minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pot before transferring to the oven.
Crowd-Pleaser: A comforting, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or swap out proteins to make it your own.

Tips

Rice Tips: Check your rice package for specific cooking times and liquid ratios.
Broccoli Texture: Use fresh broccoli for a firmer texture, or steam frozen broccoli before adding it to the dish.
Cheese Options: Try mixing cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey, ham, or even shrimp.
Vegetables: Add mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream, milk, and cheese alternatives.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid amount according to the package instructions for brown rice.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole without the topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
Beverages: Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine.
Leftovers: Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.