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chicken broccoli rice casserole

chicken broccoli rice casserole

A comforting, easy one-dish casserole made with chicken, broccoli, rice, cheese, and simple pantry staples. This family-friendly recipe requires minimal prep, works with either a dump-and-bake or traditional method, and delivers a flavorful, hearty meal suitable for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Rest time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1–1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1–1.5 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 10–12 oz broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 2–4 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup or mushroom/celery
  • 1–2 cups shredded cheese cheddar recommended
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Garlic powder to taste
  • herbs such as thyme, basil, or parsley optional

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Skillet for traditional method
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Dump-and-Bake Method
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Add uncooked rice, broth, cream soup, seasonings, broccoli, and diced chicken to a baking dish. Mix well.
  3. Cover tightly with foil.
  4. Bake for 55–60 minutes.
  5. Remove foil, add extra cheese on top, and bake a few more minutes until melted.
  6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Traditional Method
  1. Cook rice separately.
  2. Sauté chicken in a skillet until lightly browned.
  3. Prepare a homemade cheese sauce (roux + milk + stock + cheddar).
  4. Combine rice, chicken, broccoli, sauce, and seasonings in the baking dish.
  5. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
  6. Rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use only long-grain white rice for consistent texture. Brown or wild rice require different liquid ratios.
  • If rice isn’t fully cooked after 60 minutes, re-cover and bake an additional 5–10 minutes.
  • Rotisserie chicken can replace raw chicken to save prep time (reduce cooking time slightly).
  • Add panko, crackers, or almonds for a crunchy topping.
  • To meal prep: assemble up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, then bake with reduced time.
  • Store leftovers 3–4 days in airtight containers; add broth or milk when reheating.