Pin A creamy comforting casserole featuring tender chicken fresh broccoli and fluffy rice all baked together in a simple homemade sauce. Perfect for weeknights and budget-friendly family meals.
I first made this casserole when my family needed a satisfying dinner we could all agree on. It quickly became a staple for busy evenings thanks to its comfort and ease.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups diced or shredded (about 300 g)
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups fresh or frozen (about 200 g)
- Onion: 1 small finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup uncooked
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups (or vegetable broth)
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) or homemade
- Milk: 1 cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup plus extra for topping
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon optional
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup optional
- Melted butter: 2 tablespoons optional for topping
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large skillet over medium heat sauté onion in a splash of oil until soft about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl combine cooked chicken broccoli sautéed onion and garlic uncooked rice broth condensed soup milk cheese salt pepper and thyme. Mix well.
- Assemble:
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add Topping:
- If using mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over casserole. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes until rice is tender casserole is bubbling and top is golden.
- Rest:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pin Sharing this with my loved ones always brings back memories of simple homemade comfort after busy school days. Everyone usually asks for seconds!
Variations
Add sliced mushrooms or frozen peas for more veggies. Try replacing cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot straight from the oven paired with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. A glass of Sauvignon Blanc is a great match if you enjoy wine.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Pin Enjoy this casserole as a fuss-free dinner with plenty of flavor and easy clean-up. The leftovers are just as comforting the next day.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use frozen broccoli for this dish?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well and can be used directly without thawing, maintaining the dish's texture and flavor.
- → Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free condensed soup and substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or omit them altogether.
- → What can I substitute for condensed cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade creamy sauce using milk, chicken broth, and some flour or cornstarch to thicken, along with seasonings.
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks properly in the casserole?
Use long-grain white rice and bake covered to trap steam. Adding sufficient broth helps the rice cook evenly during baking.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, vegetables like sliced mushrooms or frozen peas can be mixed in to add extra flavor and nutrition.
- → Is there a quicker way to prepare this dish?
Using cooked rotisserie chicken can save prep time while maintaining the same comforting flavors.