Description
Discover how to make a delicious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a comforting family meal!
Ingredients
- 1 (298 ml) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups (473 ml) chicken broth, water, or milk
- 1 cup (180 g) uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 lb. (454 g) uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts or boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 1 (357 g) bag frozen baby broccoli florets (or cuts)
- 1 cup (113 g) grated sharp cheddar cheese
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: additional herbs and seasoning of choice, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, basil, oregano, chives, parsley, or seasoned salt
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme
Instructions
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. In this dish, combine the cream of chicken soup with either broth or water.
- Mix in the uncooked long grain rice, diced chicken, and frozen broccoli. Add approximately ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper for seasoning. This is also the time to incorporate any additional herbs or spices you prefer, such as at least ¼ teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Herbs like parsley, thyme, basil, oregano, or chives can also enhance the flavor. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Seal the dish tightly with foil and place it in the oven for 55-60 minutes. The goal is for most of the liquid to be absorbed, the rice to become soft, and the chicken to be fully cooked. If after an hour the rice remains firm, cover the dish again and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent the rice from becoming overly soft. Once done, distribute the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Put the dish back in the oven briefly, just enough time for the cheese to melt.
- Optionally, add chopped fresh herbs as a garnish before serving immediately.
Notes
- Consider marinating the diced chicken in a blend of herbs and spices before layering it in the casserole for enhanced flavor.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese layer before baking to achieve a crispy texture.
- Get creative by using alternative cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère to give a unique twist to this traditional casserole.
