Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese baked to perfection with flavorful herbs and spices. It’s an easy-to-make, wholesome casserole perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains and Dairy
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Fats and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring it does not burn.
- Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked long grain white rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the rice with oil and butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice, which helps develop flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: Transfer the toasted rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Add the shredded cooked chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, chicken broth, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir everything together to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and cook through.
- Check Rice and Continue Baking if Needed: Remove the foil carefully, stir the casserole gently, and check if the rice is tender. If the rice needs more time, cover again and bake for another 5-10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add Sour Cream and Cheese: Once the rice is tender, stir in the sour cream to add creaminess. Then evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts, becomes bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy broccoli chicken and rice casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli florets; if frozen, thaw and drain excess water first.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or parsley for extra flavor.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
