If you're craving a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty ingredients, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole will hit the spot. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners, it combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp-tender broccoli in a velvety cheese sauce, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Let’s dive into this ultimate comfort food and why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients: What Makes Each One Shine
- 11 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor while acting as the base for cooking and the creamy sauce.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the savory depth of the dish.
- 1 ½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces): The star protein, bringing hearty texture and mild flavor that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with a fragrant, savory kick.
- 2 cups water: Essential for cooking the rice to fluffy perfection.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Provides the starch base, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and chicken.
- 4 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces): Adds a pop of color, nutrients, and a hint of crunch.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the creamy sauce to the ideal consistency.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Offers a subtle hint of spice to balance the richness.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon dried marjoram: Adds a touch of earthiness.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves: A classic herb for a warm, aromatic background.
- 1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth: Builds a savory base for the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups milk: Creates a creamy texture for the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers bold, tangy flavor and creamy meltiness.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed): Forms a buttery, crispy topping that adds texture and flavor contrast.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Onions and Chicken
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 2 minutes.
- Push the onions to one side of the skillet. Add the chicken, working in batches, and cook until browned on both sides. Remove to a plate.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Combine with the onions and set aside.
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Prepare the Rice and Broccoli
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon butter, and ½ teaspoon salt to a boil. Stir in the rice, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
- Steam the broccoli until just tender, either on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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Make the Cheese Sauce
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes, onion powder, marjoram, and thyme.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, alternating between the two, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and whisk in 1 ¼ cups cheddar cheese until melted.
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Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
- Spoon half the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle with ½ cup cheddar.
- Add the remaining mixture and top with the remaining cheddar.
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Add the Topping and Bake
- Combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the remaining 4 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Multitask efficiently: Cook the onions and chicken simultaneously by using separate sides of the skillet.
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli: Steam until just tender to maintain a pleasant bite.
- Customize the veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese choice: Opt for freshly shredded sharp cheddar for the best melting and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a one-dish wonder, but you can elevate your meal with a few sides:
- A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls to scoop up every last bit of cheesy goodness.
- A light, fruity dessert, like lemon bars or a berry parfait, to balance the richness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is everything you want in comfort food: simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. The creamy cheese sauce and crispy cracker topping make it irresistible, while the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli add a wholesome touch. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Prepare to savor every bite of this hearty classic—and don’t be surprised when it becomes a family favorite. Ready to wow at your next dinner? Try this recipe today and experience the magic yourself!