Description
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty American classic that combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant steamed broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with a buttery, crispy cracker crust and baked until golden and bubbly, it’s the perfect easy family dinner that satisfies every time.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly 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 rice, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for cooking. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, toss the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole to add a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout and the topping has turned a crispy golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- Use brown rice or quinoa as healthier grain alternatives.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that works well in this recipe.
- For added richness, stir in 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese before baking.
