If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal, this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole is the perfect choice. With tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh broccoli, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to be a hit at any family dinner.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/4 cups uncooked white long grain rice
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (uncooked)
- 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Optional Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Casserole Topping
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tbsp melted butter
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If using fresh chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Melt butter in a pot over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- If using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it and set aside.
- Cook the Rice:
- In the same pot, add chicken broth and olive oil, bringing it to a boil.
- Add rice, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 6 minutes.
- Add the broccoli, cover again, and cook for 9 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Turn off the heat and stir in the cooked chicken (or rotisserie chicken), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish and bake for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the topping by mixing crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
- After 15 minutes, remove the cover, add the cracker topping, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the topping is golden.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set. Enjoy!
