Description
This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy white rice, nutritious steamed broccoli, and a blend of melty cheeses in a creamy sauce. Topped with a buttery, crunchy crumb layer, it bakes to golden perfection in under 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked white rice, steamed broccoli florets, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Transfer Mixture: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to create a uniform casserole layer.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole for a crispy, golden finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.
- If you want an extra cheesy top, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese before baking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.
