Save to Pinterest A creamy, comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice, all baked together in a simple homemade sauce. Perfect for weeknights and budget-friendly family meals.
I remember making this casserole after a busy day and being surprised at how quickly everything came together. The creamy sauce and golden topping made it a household favorite.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, diced or shredded (about 300 g)
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups, fresh or frozen (about 200 g)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup, uncooked
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups (or vegetable broth)
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) or homemade equivalent
- Milk: 1 cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup plus extra for topping
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (optional)
- Melted butter: 2 tablespoons, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prep:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Sauté aromatics:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook onion in a splash of oil until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Mix casserole:
- In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, onion, garlic, uncooked rice, broth, condensed soup, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well.
- Transfer and top:
- Pour mixture into baking dish and spread evenly. If using, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over top. Add extra cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake 30 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Uncover and bake 10–15 more minutes, until rice is tender and top is golden.
- Rest and serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest This casserole is always requested when the family gathers for Sunday dinner. It is a comforting dish everyone looks forward to sharing together.
Substitution Ideas
Brown rice can be used but increase the liquid by 1/2 cup and add 20 minutes to the bake time. You can add sliced mushrooms or frozen peas for more veggies.
Required Tools
You will need a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, large bowl, skillet, measuring cups and spoons, and aluminum foil for making this casserole.
Nutrition & Allergens
This recipe contains milk, wheat, and chicken. Per serving: 470 calories, 19 g total fat, 43 g carbohydrates, 29 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This casserole is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Serve with a salad for a complete meal.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen broccoli for this dish?
Yes, frozen broccoli florets work well. Just thaw slightly or add directly before mixing for convenient prep.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free condensed soup and replace breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free options or omit the topping.
- → What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is ideal for this bake. Brown rice can be used but requires more liquid and longer baking time.
- → Is it possible to add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Sliced mushrooms, frozen peas, or other favorite veggies can be stirred in for extra flavor and nutrients.
- → How can I get a crispy topping?
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking. Adding extra cheddar cheese enhances crispness and flavor.
- → Can I substitute rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing taste or texture in this dish.