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Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe - Delicious Meal Ideas

Let me take you back to a chilly afternoon in my kitchen. I rummaged through the pantry and freezer, looking for something quick yet comforting to whip up. That’s how my love affair with broccoli chicken casserole began. This dish has been a family favorite for years—a true comfort food that warms both heart and stomach. Funny enough, the first time I made it, I didn’t even have all the ingredients. But with a little improvisation and lots of love, it turned out to be a hit!
What makes broccoli chicken casserole special? It's about bringing together wholesome ingredients into one hearty dish. It’s packed with nutrition, great for leftovers, and everyone in my household loves it. Over the years, I’ve not only perfected my recipe but also heard countless stories from friends and family who have adapted it in their own homes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 303
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 to 3 cups raw broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 1/4 cups uncooked long grain white rice
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will allow your casserole to cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
  1. If you’re using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt and pepper. Sauté in a little bit of olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through. If you opt for rotisserie chicken, skip this step and simply dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
  1. In a medium pot, combine long-grain white rice and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
Step 4: Mix the Base
  1. In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, whole milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
  1. Toss in the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice. Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix to combine thoroughly.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
  1. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
  1. Combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole evenly, then top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 8: Bake
  1. Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 9: Let It Cool
  1. Before serving, let your casserole cool for about 5–10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables give better flavor and nutrition. Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist on tradition.
  • Add Crunch: For a crunchier topping, consider mixing in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds with the Ritz crackers.
  • - Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to increase the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
  • Perfect Portion Control: This dish freezes beautifully. Store individual portions in airtight containers to enjoy later!