Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy rice into one easy meal, perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups steamed broccoli florets, finely diced
- 1 lb chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- 1 cup long-grain rice (Basmati preferred)
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups water
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- ¼ cup onions, finely diced
- ¼ cup celery, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 2½ cups freshly shredded mixed cheese (½ mozzarella and ½ sharp cheddar)
Instructions
- Prepare broccoli: Place the cooked, chopped broccoli in a large bowl and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of butter. Season the chicken, cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove, chop, and add to the bowl with broccoli.
- Prepare rice: In the same skillet, add water and salt. Bring to a boil, add rice, cover, and cook on low for 15-20 minutes. Stir into the bowl with chicken and broccoli.
- Make the sauce: Melt remaining butter in the skillet, add onions and celery, sauté until softened. Add garlic, cook for 1 minute. Whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add liquid: Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with pepper, garlic powder, and celery salt.
- Combine: Pour sauce over chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture. Stir to combine.
- Add cheese: Mix in cheddar cheese until melted, then transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), sprinkle mixed cheese on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or peas for more nutrition. Swap in your preferred cheeses to change the flavor profile.