Description
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy rice baked to golden perfection. Ideal for family dinners, it features a cheesy, savory base and an optional crispy breadcrumb topping for extra texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the fresh broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they become tender but still retain a slight crunch, then drain well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble: Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it is well-distributed for uniform cooking.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole for a rich, cheesy top layer. If desired, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture on top for a crispy, golden finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier portioning and enhanced flavors.
Notes
- Using cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
- Substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade sauce or cream of mushroom for variation.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste before baking.
- Ensure broccoli is drained well to prevent a watery casserole.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
