Description

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-pan classic that combines juicy chicken, tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that comes together quickly—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With its crispy topping and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted

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Instructions

Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Mix the casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, broccoli florets, chicken broth, milk, condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake: Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through and the flavors to meld.
Prepare the topping: While the casserole bakes, mix together the extra 1 cup cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter in a small bowl until evenly combined.
Add the topping: After 35 minutes, remove the foil from the casserole. Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface.
Bake uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 15-18 minutes more, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set for easy slicing and serving.

Notes

You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw; just add straight to the mix.
Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a cheese blend if desired.
For a lighter casserole, use low-fat milk and sour cream.
To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate (without topping) up to 24 hours. Add topping and bake when ready.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 405
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 85mg