Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 c diced rotisserie chicken

1 tsp Italian Seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 1/2 c chicken broth

1 tbsp olive oil

1 1/4 c white long grain rice uncooked

2 c fresh broccoli florets uncooked

10.5 ounces Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup

½ c milk

½ c sour cream

2 c shredded cheddar cheese separated

Optional Seasonings:

1/2 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Casserole Topping:

1 c Ritz crackers crushed

2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F.

Prepare the Chicken:

If using fresh chicken. Cut into bite-sized pieces. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

In a pot. Melt butter over medium heat. Cook the chicken. Until golden brown. About 5 minutes.

Remove and set aside.

If using rotisserie chicken. Skip the cooking step. And just prepare it for the casserole.

Cook the Rice:

In the same pot. Add chicken broth and olive oil. Bring to a boil.

Add rice. Reduce heat. Simmer covered for 6 minutes.

Add broccoli. Cover again. Continue cooking for 9 more minutes. Or until the rice is tender. And the

liquid is absorbed.

Combine Ingredients:

Turn off the heat. Mix in the cooked chicken (if using rotisserie chicken, add it now), 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.

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While it bakes. Prepare the topping by mixing crushed crackers with melted butter.

Remove the cover. Add the cracker topping. Bake uncovered. For an additional 10 minutes. Until the topping is golden.

Serve:

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. To set the flavors and texture.

Notes:

Chicken Options: You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or diced rotisserie chicken for this casserole, making it convenient for utilizing leftover chicken or fresh cuts.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper are used to flavor the chicken, providing a savory base for the casserole.
Creamy Base: The creamy texture of this casserole comes from a combination of Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup, milk, and sour cream, creating a rich and indulgent sauce.
Cheesy Goodness: Shredded cheddar cheese adds a deliciously gooey element to the casserole, enhancing its richness and flavor. The cheese is layered throughout the casserole and sprinkled on top for a golden finish.
Nutritious Addition: Fresh broccoli florets not only contribute to the vibrant color of the dish but also provide added nutrition and texture, making this casserole a wholesome meal option.
Rice Component: White long-grain rice serves as the carbohydrate base of the casserole, absorbing the flavorful chicken broth and contributing to the dish’s heartiness.
Optional Seasonings: Dried thyme and garlic powder are suggested as optional seasonings to enhance the flavor profile of the casserole, offering additional depth and complexity.
Casserole Topping: A crunchy topping made from crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter adds a delightful contrast in texture to the creamy casserole filling, providing a satisfying bite with each spoonful.
Baking Process: The assembled casserole is baked in the oven, covered initially to allow the flavors to meld and the ingredients to cook through, followed by an uncovered baking period to achieve a golden, crispy topping.
Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving helps to set the flavors and texture, ensuring a delicious and cohesive dish with each bite.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use different types of cheese for this casserole?

Yes, you can customize the cheese according to your preference.

While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other varieties such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out, then bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this casserole by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

You can also add extra vegetables or substitute the chicken with tofu for protein.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh broccoli florets.

Just be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

Can I omit the Ritz cracker topping?

Of course! The Ritz cracker topping adds a crunchy texture to the casserole, but if you prefer a softer texture or want to reduce the calorie content, you can skip the topping altogether or substitute it with breadcrumbs.

What can I serve alongside this casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal and add extra variety.

Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for future meals.

Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Is there a substitute for condensed cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer not to use condensed cream of chicken soup, you can make a homemade version or substitute it with condensed cream of mushroom soup or condensed cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

While the cooking time may vary slightly, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe for a healthier alternative.

Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and add extra liquid if necessary, as brown rice typically requires more time and liquid to cook.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done baking when it’s heated through, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.

You can also insert a knife into the center of the casserole to ensure that the rice is tender and fully cooked.