Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, fluffy rice, and melty cheese come together in one warm, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup uncooked rice (preferably a long-grain rice like Basmati or Jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1⁄2 cup sour cream
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, steam the broccoli until just tender. If using frozen, cook according to package directions.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and sauté until warmed through. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
6. Add the cooked rice, sautéed chicken, and broccoli to the bowl. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
7. Stir in 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese into the mixture.
8. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
9. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
10. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
11. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Substitute chopped cooked turkey for chicken to use up holiday leftovers. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese layer before baking. This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or frozen for later. Allow to cool completely before freezing, then reheat in the oven when ready to serve.