This one-pot chicken, broccoli, and rice casserole is a comforting and cheesy dinner packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy rice, and plenty of melted cheese. You can sear chicken breasts for added flavor or save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy meal.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, tightly packed
- 1 (10 oz.) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
INSTRUCTIONS
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken pieces until fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add olive oil.
- Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Prepare the Rice
- Stir in the rinsed rice, ensuring it’s well-coated in the butter and oil.
- Pour in the chicken broth, season with pepper, and stir.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook the Broccoli
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet, cover, and steam for 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice rest with the lid on for 5–10 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli to evenly combine.
- Add the cooked chicken (including plate juices), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Bake the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish if needed. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Optional
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or broil briefly to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm and enjoy!
NOTES
- Substitute Protein: Swap chicken for turkey or sausage.
- Smoky Twist: Add a dash of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Crumb Topping: Mix melted butter with crushed Ritz crackers and bake on top for 10 minutes.
- Boost Veggies: Include mushrooms or bell peppers for added variety.
- Extra Flavor: Sprinkle in bacon bits or chorizo for a savory kick.
