Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

Chicken broccoli rice casserole is my answer to busy weeknights and comforting family dinners. This dish brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese in one bubbling casserole with just the right touch of crunch on top. It is always a hit at gatherings and a staple for meal-prepping during the colder months.

The first time I made this casserole was for a neighbor welcoming a new baby. When I saw how gratefully it was devoured by everyone, I made a copycat for my own family. Now it is requested constantly during cooler seasons and after game nights.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken: use what is freshest for you chicken brings the satisfying protein to this casserole and pre-cooked rotisserie is a shortcut on busy nights
• White long grain rice: opt for high quality rice with bonus flavor and perfect fluffiness
• Broccoli florets: pick the brightest green heads from the produce section for best taste and texture
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: reach for a trusted brand or homemade for unbeatable richness
• Sharp cheddar cheese: go for block cheese you shred yourself for maximum melt and flavor
• Chicken broth: look for low sodium varieties for more control over seasoning
• Ritz crackers: classic buttery crunch a must for that craveable golden topping
• Olive oil and butter: quality fats add depth and richness to the dish
• Italian seasoning dried thyme and garlic powder: bring aromatic notes and herby warmth
• Milk: adds creaminess and helps everything blend together
• Salt and pepper: enhance every ingredient do not be shy to season to taste

How to Make It

Prep the Chicken:

Cut chicken breast into small bite size pieces for fast and even cooking then season generously with Italian seasoning salt and pepper

Start the Rice Base:

Pour chicken broth and olive oil into a large pot stir in the rice and bring to a boil reduce heat then cover tightly and simmer until partially cooked about six minutes

Steam Broccoli In:

Arrange the broccoli florets on top of the rice replace the lid and let steam for about nine minutes or until rice is perfectly tender and no liquid remains

Rest the Rice:

Take the pot off the heat without removing the lid let the rice and broccoli rest undisturbed for ten minutes this lets the bottom rice loosen and become fluffy

Mix the Filling:

Add cooked chicken condensed soup milk and half the shredded cheddar blend with the rice and broccoli until evenly mixed creamy and cheesy

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish smooth the top and sprinkle the rest of the cheese evenly

Prepare the Topping:

Crush Ritz crackers and toss with melted butter then scatter right over the casserole for a toasty golden crunch

Bake and Serve:

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees for fifteen minutes until the cheese melts and the casserole heats through remove foil for the last few minutes if you want extra crispiness

Cheddar cheese is the star for me my youngest loves to help sprinkle it over the top and watch it melt into a bubbly crown. I remember friends lingering at the table for a second helping and the whole house smelling like home.

Flavor Boosters

Add a drizzle of hot sauce or use homemade cranberry sauce for a tangy contrast. Italian seasoning and fresh black pepper on top can amp up the savory flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is satisfying as a full meal but I love it alongside a simple mixed salad or hot roasted carrots. Try serving with a loaf of crusty bread for soaking up any creamy casserole edges.

Creative Twists

Swap in cauliflower or asparagus for the broccoli in spring or add diced bell peppers or peas in summer for more color. Butternut squash cubes give an autumn vibe, and using mushrooms instead of chicken turns it into a vegetarian favorite.

This family favorite only gets better the next day and takes on new personality with each creative tweak. Try a batch for your next gathering and see happy faces around your table.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or diced rotisserie chicken are ideal choices, as they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli florets?

Yes, though fresh broccoli is preferred for texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to prevent sogginess.

→ Is there a substitute for condensed cream of chicken soup?

You can use a homemade cream sauce or a dairy-based thickener for a similar creamy texture without the canned soup.

→ How should I cook the rice for this dish?

Rice is lightly cooked with chicken broth and olive oil on the stovetop until nearly tender before combining with other ingredients and baking.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Adjust baking time accordingly if baking from chilled.