This Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal that’s packed with tender chicken, broccoli, rice, and a cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner and makes excellent leftovers. With a buttery Ritz cracker topping, this casserole has the ideal combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups water
- 1 small onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 32 crushed Ritz crackers (one sleeve)
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 1 cup of uncooked rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Set the rice aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the rice is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes until they are just tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, dried thyme, marjoram, and onion powder. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes until it starts to turn golden.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Stir until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a simmer. Season with crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and additional pepper to taste. Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 6: Make the Ritz Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated with the butter.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker topping evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole as a main dish or a hearty side.
Cooking Notes:
- Broccoli: For the best texture, avoid overcooking the broccoli before adding it to the casserole. It should be tender but still slightly crisp to hold up in the baking process.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses.
- Ritz Cracker Topping: If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can substitute them with breadcrumbs or panko for a different but still crunchy topping.
Variations:
1. Vegetarian Broccoli Rice Casserole
Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
2. Spicy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicier kick.
3. Lighter Version
Use low-fat milk, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and swap half of the butter for olive oil to lighten up the dish without sacrificing too much flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the Ritz cracker topping and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, add the topping and bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time if necessary.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works just as well, though it will take longer to cook. You can also use precooked brown rice or instant rice to save time.
This Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese sauce topped with buttery Ritz crackers makes for a delicious and hearty dish. Plus, it’s versatile and can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences or available ingredients. Make it ahead of time or freeze it for later—either way, it’s a family-friendly recipe that you’ll come back to again and again. Give this recipe a try for a warm, satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
