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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Family Dinners

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When it comes to comfort food, casseroles often take the crown, and this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is no exception. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, all in one dish. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare or a hearty meal to serve your family, this recipe is a must-try. With a combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it brings together all the elements of a satisfying meal in one convenient dish.

Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts (2 boneless, skinless):
    • These provide a lean source of protein. Dicing them into bite-sized pieces ensures that each bite is packed with tender chicken.
  • Chicken Broth (2 ½ cups):
    • Adds depth of flavor to the rice and keeps it moist during cooking. It also enhances the savory notes of the casserole.
  • Butter (2 tablespoons):
    • Butter adds richness to the dish and helps in browning the chicken, adding a layer of flavor.
  • Milk (½ cup) and Sour Cream (½ cup):
    • These create a creamy texture, balancing the savory components with a slight tang from the sour cream.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, divided):
    • Cheddar cheese brings a rich, sharp flavor that melts into the casserole, making it irresistibly gooey.
  • Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz):
    • A staple in creamy casseroles, this soup adds body and enhances the chicken flavor throughout the dish.
  • Olive Oil (1 tablespoon):
    • Used to cook the rice and broccoli, olive oil brings a light, fruity flavor to the dish while preventing sticking.
  • White Rice (1 ¼ cups, uncooked):
    • Long grain white rice is perfect for casseroles because it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well without becoming mushy.
  • Fresh Broccoli Florets (2 cups, uncooked):
    • Broccoli adds a burst of color and a fresh, slightly crunchy texture, balancing the creamy and cheesy components.
  • Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon):
    • This blend of herbs (like oregano, basil, and thyme) enhances the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste):
    • Essential for seasoning each component of the dish, bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will bake evenly, resulting in a perfectly golden, melted cheese topping.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

  • Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, approximately 5 minutes. This step not only cooks the chicken but also develops a beautiful golden crust that adds a depth of flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

  • To the same pot, add the chicken broth, olive oil, and uncooked white rice.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 6 minutes.
  • Add the broccoli florets, cover, and continue to cook for another 9 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is cooked through.

Tip: If the rice isn’t fully cooked, continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Keeping the lid on during this stage traps the steam, which helps to cook the rice evenly.

Step 4: Rest and Fluff the Rice

  • Turn off the heat and leave the pot covered for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid, making it fluffy and preventing it from sticking together.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

  • Stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  • The creamy mixture coats the rice and broccoli, infusing each bite with rich, savory flavors.

Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish

  • Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, covering the surface evenly.

Step 7: Bake

  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  • This baking time allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Notes

  • Adding Crunch: If you prefer a bit of crunch on top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers over the cheese before baking. This adds a delightful texture that contrasts with the creamy casserole.
  • Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor.
  • Vegetable Add-ins: You can easily customize this casserole by adding different vegetables. Consider incorporating mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Make It Spicy: For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture before baking.
  • Low-Carb Version: Swap out the white rice for cauliflower rice to make a low-carb version of this casserole. It’s just as delicious and great for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Find it online: https://marcelarecipes.com/cheesy-chicken-broccoli-rice-casserole-the-ultimate-comfort-food-for-family-dinners/