Creamy Dreamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Recipe Introduction: Creamy Dreamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Ever get that craving for something proper comforting? You know, like a big hug on a plate? Then listen up, because this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is about to become your new best mate.

Quick Hook

Honestly, who doesn't love a good Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ? This one is especially easy chicken broccoli rice casserole and bursting with cheesy, creamy goodness.

The broccoli adds a bit of green, so you can almost call it healthy.

Brief Overview

This classic American dish is perfect for family dinners. It's proper simple, takes around an hour start to finish, and serves about 6-8 people.

Think of it as a slightly posh version of a TV dinner. It's comfort food at its finest, I tell you!

Main Benefits

Packed with protein from the chicken, it's a surprisingly filling meal. Plus, it is the perfect weeknight chicken casserole , or for those days when you just want to curl up on the sofa with something yummy.

What makes this recipe special? Well, it's dead simple, it uses ingredients you probably already have. It tastes amazing, and it's a surefire crowd pleaser!

Ready to get cooking?

The Star Line-Up: Ingredients for Your Creamy Dreamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Alright, let's gather the troops, or ingredients, as you might know them. Here’s what you'll need to create this masterpiece of a broccoli chicken and rice casserole .

You'll need chicken, broccoli, rice, and some other bits and bobs.

For the Broccoli and Chicken Casserole :

• You’ll need about 2 lbs (900g) of chicken breasts. Cooked and shredded, like you would for pulled pork.
• A tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil.
• One medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup/150g).
• Two cloves of garlic, minced.
• A can of condensed cream of chicken soup (10.75 oz/305g).
• A cup of milk (240ml), either whole or 2%.
• A cup of mayonnaise (240ml). Don't skimp!
• A teaspoon (5ml) of Dijon mustard.
• Half a teaspoon (2.5ml) of black pepper.
• A quarter teaspoon (1.25ml) of salt, or to your liking.
• Two cups (400g) of cooked long grain rice.
• Two cups (200g) of broccoli florets. Lightly steamed or blanched is best.
• One and a half cups (170g) of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep half a cup aside for the topping!

For That Optional, But Highly Recommended Topping:

• Half a cup (50g) of crushed Ritz crackers. Or any similar buttery crackers you like.
• Two tablespoons (30g) of melted unsalted butter.
• A quarter cup (30g) of shredded parmesan cheese (optional).

Right, got all that?

Gear Up: Equipment You'll Need

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s make sure we’ve got all the necessary kit. No point in starting without the right tools, eh?

• A 9x13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish.
• A large skillet or pot.
• Some mixing bowls.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• A steamer basket (if you're steaming your broccoli, of course).

Now you're all set! Let's get cracking!

Ingredients & Equipment: Cracking on with the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Alright, let's get the lowdown on what you need. This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is easier than you think!

Main Ingredients: No Fuss, Just Flavour

• Chicken : 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded. Look for chicken that's plump and pink before cooking. Avoid any that smells off!
• Olive Oil : 1 tbsp (15ml) . Any decent brand will do the trick.
• Onion : 1 medium yellow onion, diced (around 1 cup/150g ). The sweeter, the better!
• Garlic : 2 cloves, minced. Fresh is best, innit?
• Cream of Chicken Soup : 1 (10.75 oz/305g) can. The canned stuff is perfectly fine for this!
• Milk : 1 cup (240ml) . Whole or 2% works great.
• Mayonnaise : 1 cup (240ml) . Full fat or light, your call.
• Dijon Mustard : 1 tsp (5ml) . Adds a bit of oomph .
• Black Pepper : 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) . Freshly ground is always better, honestly.
• Salt : 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) , or to taste. Don't be shy, give it a good pinch!
• Rice : 2 cups (approx. 400g) cooked long grain rice. Uncle Ben's is a classic, like your nan makes.
• Broccoli : 2 cups (approx. 200g) broccoli florets, steamed or blanched. You want them tender crisp, not mushy.
• Cheddar Cheese : 1 1/2 cups (approx. 170g) shredded, divided.

For the topping:

• Ritz Crackers : 1/2 cup (50g) , crushed.
• Butter : 2 tbsp (30g) , melted.
• Parmesan Cheese : 1/4 cup (30g) shredded. Totally optional, but adds a nice tang.

Seasoning Notes: Secret's in the Sauce!

A little Dijon mustard elevates everything. Trust me. Salt and pepper are your friends. The secret ingredient for a great Creamy Chicken Casserole recipe is balance.

Curry powder or smoked paprika could add a warm touch to the sauce as well!.

Don't have Dijon? A dash of English mustard will do in a pinch. For a gluten-free alternative, consider gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free crackers.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

• 9x13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish. Glass or ceramic works great.
• Large skillet or pot. For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Mixing bowls. To combine the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Accuracy is key, bruv!
• Steamer basket (if steaming broccoli).

If you don't have a steamer, just blanch the broccoli in boiling water for a couple of minutes.

Honestly, this Chicken In Rice Casserole is all about the comfort . And broccoli chicken and rice casserole is always a winner.

Don't stress about having fancy kit. Get stuck in, and enjoy the process! A Cheesy chicken broccoli casserole or Chicken rice broccoli cheese bake will satisfy your cravings every time.

This Weeknight chicken casserole is a perfect choice.

Creamy Dreamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole : Family Dinner Done Right!

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is pure comfort on a plate! Honestly, what's better than a creamy chicken casserole recipe on a chilly evening? It’s the ultimate comfort food chicken casserole .

Think cheesy, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli, all snuggled in fluffy rice. We'll even add a bit of crunch on top.

Get ready for a Broccoli and Chicken Casserole sensation! This Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is easier than you think.

Prep Steps

Essential Mise en Place : Before you even think about turning on the oven, get organised. Shred your cooked chicken , chop that onion, and make sure your broccoli is cooked but still has a bit of bite.

Having everything ready will make things so smooth.

Time Saving Organization Tips : Cook the rice and chicken ahead of time. I usually do this on Sunday, so weeknights are a breeze.

Leftover rotisserie chicken? Even better! It makes this Weeknight Chicken Casserole a cinch.

step-by-step Process

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Give your 9x13 inch baking dish a light grease.
2. Sauté diced onion in 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook until soft. Then add 2 minced garlic cloves for the last minute.
3. In a big bowl, mix one (10.75 oz) can of condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt.
4. Add 2 lbs shredded chicken, 2 cups cooked rice, and 2 cups of broccoli florets into the soup mixture. Fold it all together gently.
5. Pour this chicken in rice casserole into your dish. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar.
6. Mix 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tbsp melted butter and 1/4 cup parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the casserole.
7. Bake for 30- 35 minutes , until golden and bubbly. Casserole must reach 165° F ( 74° C) internally.
8. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole !

Pro Tips

Crispy Topping Secret : Toast those crackers! Pop the cracker topping in a dry pan for a few minutes before topping the casserole. Oh my gosh, it's next level!

Common Mistake Avoidance : Don't overcook the broccoli! Slightly undercooked is the key to good texture in your Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole .

This Chicken Rice Broccoli Cheese Bake is one of those recipes you can totally adapt. Try adding a pinch of curry powder for a twist.

Or make it ahead of time! Just assemble and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours, then add 5- 10 minutes to the baking time.

It’s honestly such a lifesaver!

Recipe Notes

Right, let's talk nitty gritty about this creamy chicken casserole recipe . This isn't just chucking stuff in a dish, you know? It's about making it your own , making it shine! I've made this Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole more times than I can count, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way.

Honestly, it's almost impossible to mess up, but a few tweaks can turn it from good to blimey that's-good!

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Fancy pants, eh? Seriously though, presentation matters! Spoon a generous portion of your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole into a shallow bowl.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley can make it pop. For a bit of extra oomph, try a side of crusty bread.

Perfect for mopping up that delicious, creamy sauce. Or how about a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette? Keeps it nice and light.

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Right, so you've got leftovers of your Broccoli Chicken And Rice Casserole lucky you! Let it cool completely before popping it in an airtight container.

In the fridge, it'll happily last for 3-4 days . Honestly, I doubt it'll last that long. If you're thinking long term, freezing is your friend! Portion it out, wrap it well, and it'll be good in the freezer for up to 3 months .

Reheat it in the oven (covered!) at 350° F ( 175° C) until it's heated through and bubbly. Microwaving works too, but it might not be as evenly heated.

Variations: Mix it Up a Bit

Fancy a twist? For a spicier version, add a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Chicken In Rice Casserole mixture.

Want to make it healthier? Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt. It adds a lovely tang! For a seasonal switch, try using butternut squash instead of broccoli in autumn.

Just roast it first until it’s tender. That Cheesy chicken broccoli casserole is versatile

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside

Okay, so it’s comfort food , but it's not all bad! This Chicken Rice Broccoli Cheese Bake is packed with protein from the chicken, and broccoli is a vitamin superstar.

Just be mindful of the cheese and creamy sauce. Portion control is key, my friend. This simple Broccoli and Chicken Casserole is a winner!

So there you have it! A few extra tips to make your Weeknight Chicken Casserole even more spectacular. This recipe for Comfort food chicken casserole is truly very simple.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time. It’s a brilliant way to get ahead, especially if you're juggling work and family life a proper time saver, like using a ready-made custard!

What if I don't have Ritz crackers for the topping? Are there any good substitutes?

No worries, mate! If you're out of Ritz crackers, you can use panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter as a fantastic alternative. You could even crush some ready salted crisps on top for a quirky alternative! For a cheesy twist, try mixing the breadcrumbs with a bit of grated Parmesan.

It'll still give you that lovely crispy topping we all crave.

I'm trying to eat healthier. Can I make this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole lighter?

You certainly can! Swap full fat mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangier and lighter flavour. Using brown rice instead of white rice will also add more fiber. Feel free to use reduced fat cheese and load up on the broccoli to keep it healthy and hearty.

Small changes can make a big difference without sacrificing that comforting taste.

How should I store leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, and how long will it last?

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge, where it should last for 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or the oven. If using the oven, add a splash of milk or broth to keep it moist.

Can I use frozen broccoli in the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly well! Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This will prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Nobody wants a soggy bottom, right?

Pre-steaming or blanching the broccoli beforehand will help it retain a better texture and ensure it cooks evenly in the casserole.

What's the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe? Should I poach, bake, or shred rotisserie chicken?

Each option works great! Poaching ensures moist chicken, baking allows you to cook a larger batch at once, and using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for busy weeknights. No matter which way, use the method that best fits your schedule and preferences.

Taste and season the chicken well before adding it to the casserole to boost flavour!